NIC Nail Technician Written ExamSafety and RegulationsMedium
A new nail technician is performing a service and accidentally nicks a client's cuticle, causing a small amount of bleeding. What is the correct immediate procedure to follow according to standard infection control practices?
- AApply an antiseptic spray and continue the service if the client agrees.
- BStop the service, put on gloves, clean the wound, apply antiseptic, and cover with a bandage.
- CImmediately discard all tools used and sanitize the workstation, then resume with new tools.
- DBlot the area with a clean towel and instruct the client to wash their hand thoroughly after the service.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Stop the service, put on gloves, clean the wound, apply antiseptic, and cover with a bandage.
When a blood exposure incident occurs, the service must be stopped immediately. The technician must put on gloves, clean the wound, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a bandage to prevent infection. All contaminated items must be disposed of properly.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Continuing the service without proper first aid and barrier protection risks infection for both parties.
- C. Discarding tools and sanitizing are important, but treating the client's injury is the immediate priority after stopping the service and donning gloves.
- D. Blotting is insufficient, and delaying proper wound care and infection control until after the service is unsafe.
Blood Exposure Protocol
A standardized procedure for managing accidental cuts or nicks that result in blood exposure during a service to prevent infection.
- Stop service immediately.
- Wear gloves for protection.
- Clean, disinfect, and bandage the wound.
- Properly dispose of contaminated materials.
Memory trick: Stop, glove, clean, cover, dispose.