Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamSafety, Sanitation, and SterilizationMedium
After performing a facial, a cosmetologist needs to dispose of used cotton pads, tissues, and spatulas. Which of the following is the correct disposal method for these items?
- ARinse all items and then place them in a designated biohazard bag.
- BDisinfect and reuse the spatulas, discard the cotton pads and tissues in a regular trash receptacle.
- CPlace all items in a covered, leak-proof container for chemical waste.
- DDispose of all porous and single-use items in a covered waste receptacle lined with a plastic bag.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Dispose of all porous and single-use items in a covered waste receptacle lined with a plastic bag.
Cotton pads, tissues, and spatulas (if single-use) are porous or single-use items. They should be discarded immediately after use into a covered waste receptacle lined with a plastic bag, as they cannot be disinfected for reuse and are not typically biohazardous unless visibly contaminated with blood.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. These items are not typically biohazardous unless visibly soiled with blood, so a biohazard bag is usually not necessary for routine disposal.
- B. Spatulas are often single-use and should not be disinfected and reused; cotton pads and tissues are correctly discarded.
- C. These items are not chemical waste and do not require a specific chemical waste container.
Disposal of Single-Use/Porous Items
The practice of discarding items designed for one-time use or porous materials immediately after a single client service to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cannot be disinfected or reused.
- Includes cotton balls, pads, tissues, emery boards, wooden spatulas.
- Dispose in a covered trash receptacle.
Memory trick: If it's porous or one-and-done, toss it in the bin, job done!