California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlHard
A nail technician places metal implements into an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant solution. The product label specifies a required contact time of 10 minutes to achieve full disinfection. What must the technician ensure to properly disinfect the implements?
- AThe implements are rinsed in water instead of immersed, to save time
- BThe implements are wiped briefly with the solution for about 30 seconds
- CThe implements only need immersion if they appear visibly soiled
- DThe implements are fully immersed in the solution for the entire labeled contact time
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The implements are fully immersed in the solution for the entire labeled contact time
Proper disinfection requires implements be completely (fully) immersed in the EPA-registered disinfectant solution for the manufacturer's entire labeled contact time; shortening the time or only wiping the surface fails to achieve the disinfectant's intended kill claim.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Rinsing with water does not disinfect; it only removes visible debris.
- B. A quick wipe does not meet the required contact time for pathogen kill.
- C. Disinfection is required after every client regardless of visible soil.
Disinfectant Contact Time
The minimum amount of time an implement must remain in full contact with an EPA-registered disinfectant to achieve the labeled kill claim.
- Must fully immerse implements, not just wipe
- Follow manufacturer's labeled contact time exactly
- Shortening time fails to kill targeted pathogens
Memory trick: No shortcuts — the clock on the label is the law.