NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A barber is performing a shave and accidentally nicks the client's skin. To stop the bleeding, the barber should apply an antiseptic and then use a styptic pencil. What is the primary chemical action of a styptic pencil in stopping minor bleeding?
- AIt breaks down blood cells, preventing them from forming a plug.
- BIt neutralizes the pH of the blood, making it less prone to bleeding.
- CIt dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to carry away pathogens.
- DIt acts as a strong astringent, causing blood vessels to constrict and clot.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. It acts as a strong astringent, causing blood vessels to constrict and clot.
Styptic pencils typically contain aluminum sulfate, which is a powerful astringent. Astringents cause local tissues, including blood vessels, to contract or constrict, thereby helping to stop minor bleeding by promoting clot formation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This action would prevent clotting and worsen bleeding.
- B. Neutralizing blood pH is not the primary mechanism of a styptic pencil.
- C. Dilating blood vessels would increase bleeding, not stop it.
Styptic Pencil Action
A styptic pencil uses astringent properties to constrict blood vessels and stop minor bleeding.
- Contains astringent chemicals (e.g., aluminum sulfate).
- Causes vasoconstriction.
- Promotes clot formation.
- Used for minor cuts and nicks.
Memory trick: Styptic Squeezes, Stops Seepage.