California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
A new stylist assumes a regular client with no visible symptoms doesn't require gloves for a scalp treatment involving minor scratching risk. Which infection control concept does this reasoning violate?
- AMaterial Safety labeling
- BErgonomic principles
- CStandard precautions
- DSanitation hierarchy
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Standard precautions
Standard precautions require treating every client as if they could be carrying an infectious disease, regardless of visible symptoms, meaning appropriate PPE such as gloves should be worn whenever there's a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. SDS labeling relates to chemical hazard communication, not client care.
- B. Ergonomic principles concern posture and repetitive strain, not infection control.
- D. Sanitation hierarchy refers to decontamination levels, not client risk assumptions.
Standard Precautions
An infection control approach requiring that all clients be treated as if they could be infectious, regardless of symptoms, using consistent PPE and sanitation practices.
- Applies to every client, symptomatic or not
- Requires PPE like gloves when contact with blood/body fluids is possible
- Reduces reliance on assumptions about client health status
- Core principle behind CA infection control regulations
Memory trick: 'Assume everyone's contagious' — glove up every time.