California Cosmetology Written ExamClient Consultation and AnalysisMedium
A client arrives for a scheduled shampoo and haircut. The cosmetologist observes gray, scaly, circular patches on the scalp with some hair loss in the affected areas, and the client reports itching. What should the cosmetologist do?
- ARefuse service and refer the client to a physician, as this may be tinea capitis (ringworm)
- BPerform the service but avoid direct contact with the scalp
- CApply a soothing oil treatment before cutting the hair
- DProceed with the service using a clarifying shampoo to remove the scale
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Refuse service and refer the client to a physician, as this may be tinea capitis (ringworm)
Gray, scaly, circular patches with hair loss and itching are classic signs of tinea capitis, a contagious fungal infection of the scalp. California regulations require cosmetologists to refuse service for contagious conditions and refer the client to a physician to protect both the client and other patrons.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Avoiding direct scalp contact does not eliminate the risk of spreading a contagious infection via tools.
- C. Applying any treatment would not address the underlying infection and risks spreading it.
- D. Proceeding could spread a contagious fungal infection to tools and other clients.
Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of the Scalp)
A contagious fungal infection causing gray, scaly, circular patches and hair loss on the scalp; requires refusal of service and physician referral.
- Highly contagious fungal infection
- Presents as scaly circular patches with hair loss
- Cosmetologists must refuse service and refer to a physician
Memory trick: Ring around the scalp — Ringworm means refuse and refer!