Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyMedium
A barber accidentally nicks a client's skin during a shave. After stopping the bleeding, what is the NEXT crucial step the barber must take to prevent infection?
- ADisinfect the razor and dispose of the blade.
- BApply a sterile dressing to the wound.
- CWash hands thoroughly and don new gloves.
- DApply an antiseptic solution to the cut.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Wash hands thoroughly and don new gloves.
After stopping bleeding, the barber's hands and gloves are potentially contaminated. Washing hands and donning new gloves is essential to prevent transferring pathogens to the client's wound or to other surfaces/tools.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Disinfecting the razor is important, but the barber's personal hygiene takes precedence for immediate infection control after contact with blood.
- B. Applying a sterile dressing comes after the barber has re-gloved to ensure the dressing itself isn't contaminated by the barber's hands.
- D. Applying antiseptic is for the client's wound, but the barber's hands are the immediate contamination risk.
Blood Exposure Protocol (Barber)
In case of a blood exposure incident, the barber must prioritize personal hygiene and prevent cross-contamination by immediately washing hands and gloving up before continuing to care for the client.
- Stop service immediately.
- Control bleeding.
- Wash hands and don new gloves.
- Clean and dress wound.
- Disinfect tools and surfaces.
Memory trick: Bleeding is a big deal; follow the steps to heal.