Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamSafety, Sanitation, and SterilizationMedium
A cosmetologist has just used a single-use cotton pad to apply toner during a facial. What is the correct method for disposing of this item?
- APlace it in a designated biohazard waste container.
- BPut it in a general trash receptacle with a lid.
- CRinse it and place it in a laundry hamper for cleaning.
- DLeave it on the workstation for the next client's use.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Put it in a general trash receptacle with a lid.
Single-use items like cotton pads, when not contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials, are considered general waste and should be disposed of in a covered trash receptacle. Biohazard disposal is reserved for items contaminated with blood or bodily fluids.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Biohazard waste containers are for items contaminated with blood or bodily fluids, which a cotton pad used for toner typically is not.
- C. Cotton pads are single-use and porous; they cannot be rinsed and laundered for reuse.
- D. Leaving used items on a workstation is unsanitary, unprofessional, and a violation of health regulations.
Disposal of Non-Biohazardous Single-Use Items
The proper disposal of single-use items that are not contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials into a general, covered waste receptacle.
- Single-use items
- Not contaminated with blood
- General trash in covered bin
Memory trick: If it's not bloody, it's just 'Regular Rubbish'.