California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
A cosmetologist accidentally nicks a client's skin with shears during a haircut. After stopping the service, applying gloves, controlling the bleeding, and bandaging the wound, what must she do next before resuming any service?
- AClean and disinfect the shears and any contaminated surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant
- BWash her hands and immediately resume the haircut
- CFinish the entire haircut, then disinfect everything at the end of the day
- DWipe the shears with a dry paper towel and continue
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Clean and disinfect the shears and any contaminated surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant
After addressing the wound, all contaminated tools and surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant before continuing any service, per standard blood exposure protocol and Title 16 requirements.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Handwashing alone does not decontaminate the blood-contaminated implement.
- C. Delaying disinfection risks spreading bloodborne pathogens to other surfaces or clients.
- D. A dry wipe does not kill pathogens; an EPA-registered disinfectant is required.
Blood Exposure Procedure
A standard sequence of steps to follow when a client's skin is broken during a service, ensuring safety for both client and technician.
- Stop service and glove up immediately
- Control bleeding and bandage the wound
- Disinfect all contaminated tools/surfaces before resuming
Memory trick: Stop, Glove, Stop bleeding, Bandage, Disinfect — 'SGSBD' like a first-aid checklist.