Texas Cosmetology Operator Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyHard
A cosmetologist is performing a facial and notices a small, raised, red bump on the client's skin that is tender to the touch, but it does not contain pus. According to the characteristics of bacterial infections, this description is MOST consistent with which type of lesion?
- AVesicle
- BMacule
- CPapule
- DPustule
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Papule
A papule is a small, solid, raised lesion on the skin that does not contain pus. The description of a small, raised, red bump that is tender to the touch, without pus, directly matches the definition of a papule, which can sometimes be an early sign of inflammation or infection.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A vesicle is a small blister containing clear fluid, not a solid bump.
- B. A macule is a flat, discolored spot on the skin, not raised.
- D. A pustule is a small, raised lesion containing pus, which the question explicitly states is NOT present.
Papule
A small, circumscribed, solid elevation on the skin, typically red and tender, that does not contain pus or fluid.
- Solid and raised.
- No pus or clear fluid.
- Can be tender, often a sign of inflammation or early infection.
Memory trick: Pustules are Pus, Papules are Peaks, Macules are Marks, Vesicles are Vials.