NIC Nail Technician Written ExamNail Technology ProceduresHard
A client requests a pedicure, and the technician observes several small, dark, pinpoint spots that appear to be bleeding under the surface of the skin on the sole of the client's foot. Upon closer inspection, some of these spots are surrounded by thickened skin. Which of the following conditions is most likely present, and what is the appropriate action?
- ACorns; carefully reduce with a foot file.
- BCalluses; gently exfoliate with a scrub.
- CTinea Pedis; proceed with caution, using extra sanitation.
- DPlantar Warts; refuse service and refer to a physician.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Plantar Warts; refuse service and refer to a physician.
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and often appear as small, dark, pinpoint spots (sometimes described as 'seeds') within thickened skin on the soles of the feet. These spots are actually tiny clotted blood vessels. Due to their contagious nature and the risk of spreading, nail technicians must refuse service and refer the client to a medical professional.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Corns are localized areas of thickened skin, usually on toes, and do not typically present with pinpoint bleeding spots.
- B. Calluses are generalized areas of thickened skin from friction, not characterized by pinpoint bleeding spots, and while exfoliation is appropriate for calluses, it is not for warts.
- C. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot) is a fungal infection, typically presents as scaling, redness, and itching, not pinpoint bleeding spots, and would still warrant refusal of service.
Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris)
Plantar warts are small, rough, grainy growths on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often have tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels.
- Caused by HPV
- Appear on soles of feet
- Contagious, require medical referral
Memory trick: Wart's dark dots mean 'stop, refer to doc!'