Bacteria that are round-shaped are called:
- Spirilla
- Cocci Correct answer.
- Vibrio
- Bacilli
Explanation
Bacteria are classified by shape. Cocci are round, bacilli are rod-shaped, spirilla are spiral, and vibrio are comma-shaped.
NC Cosmetology practice questions
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Which product should be used to disinfect nonporous salon implements?
- Hospital-grade disinfectant Correct answer.
- Mild shampoo
- Rubbing alcohol
- A mixture of antibacterial soap and water
Explanation
Nonporous implements must be cleaned and then treated with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant used according to the label. Soap and water clean but do not disinfect, and rubbing alcohol is not a hospital-grade disinfectant.
HIV is transmitted primarily through:
- Casual contact such as hugging
- Touching a doorknob handle
- Sharing a hairbrush and comb
- Infected blood or body fluids Correct answer.
Explanation
HIV spreads through direct contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk. It is not spread by casual touching or by sharing grooming items that are not contaminated with blood.
What personal protective equipment is essential when handling blood or body fluids?
- A hairnet
- A fabric apron
- Disposable gloves Correct answer.
- Sunglasses
Explanation
Disposable gloves create a barrier against bloodborne pathogens when blood or body fluids may be present. Other items listed do not protect the hands from contaminated fluids.
Universal precautions require the cosmetologist to:
- Wear gloves only when the client asks
- Disinfect tools only after a visible blood spill
- Treat all blood and body fluids as infectious Correct answer.
- Test each client for HIV before service
Explanation
Universal precautions mean treating every client's blood and body fluids as potentially infectious, regardless of known health status. Gloves and other barriers are used whenever contact with blood or body fluids is possible.
Which item is porous and cannot be effectively disinfected?
- Metal cuticle pusher
- Wooden nail file Correct answer.
- Glass bowl
- Plastic comb
Explanation
Porous items absorb liquids and cannot be reliably disinfected because microorganisms can penetrate the material. Wooden files and similar porous items should be discarded after use.
What is the purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
- To record the client's appointment history
- To prove the product was tested on animals
- To advertise the product's benefits
- To describe hazards and safe handling Correct answer.
Explanation
An SDS provides information about a chemical product's hazards, safe use, storage, and emergency measures. Salons must keep SDS information accessible to workers.
Cleaning a surface with soap and water to remove visible dirt is called:
- Sanitation Correct answer.
- Sterilization
- Disinfection
- Fumigation
Explanation
Sanitation is the process of cleaning to remove visible dirt and debris. Disinfection and sterilization are stronger processes that kill microorganisms.
A label states the disinfectant requires 10 minutes of contact. After cleaning the implement, the cosmetologist should:
- Dip it quickly and wipe it dry
- Leave it for 2 minutes
- Immerse it for the full 10 minutes Correct answer.
- Rinse it and return it to the drawer
Explanation
A disinfectant must remain in contact with the implement for the full time stated on the label. Shortening the contact time prevents the product from killing pathogens effectively.
Which type of disinfectant is tuberculocidal and can be harmful to skin?
- Soap
- Quats
- Phenols Correct answer.
- Hydrogen peroxide
Explanation
Phenols are known for tuberculocidal action but can irritate or damage skin, so they are used on surfaces and implements rather than on the body. Quaternary ammonium compounds are generally not tuberculocidal.
Why is hepatitis B considered a greater risk than HIV in the salon?
- It is spread through the air easily
- It survives longer on surfaces Correct answer.
- It is killed by disinfectant
- It only affects children
Explanation
Hepatitis B virus is more contagious and can survive longer on surfaces than HIV. This makes indirect contact with contaminated implements a greater concern.
Pediculosis is caused by:
- A bacterium
- A fungus
- A parasite (lice) Correct answer.
- A virus
Explanation
Pediculosis is an infestation by lice, which are parasites. It is contagious and requires referral and proper cleaning of affected items.
A client has thickened, discolored toenails and wants a pedicure. The cosmetologist should:
- Proceed but use the same tools
- Apply polish to hide the discoloration
- Refer the client to a physician Correct answer.
- Soak the feet in disinfectant
Explanation
Thickened, discolored nails may indicate a contagious fungal infection, which is a contraindication for nail service. The client should be referred to a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Sterilization differs from disinfection because sterilization:
- Kills all microorganisms, including spores Correct answer.
- Removes visible dirt and debris from surfaces
- Is used only on living skin
- Requires less time than disinfection
Explanation
Sterilization destroys all microbial life, including bacterial spores, whereas disinfection destroys most pathogens but not necessarily spores. Sterilization is used on items that must be completely free of microorganisms.
After a blood spill on the floor, the first step after putting on gloves is to:
- Wipe with a dry paper towel and discard it
- Mop the area with hot water
- Spray disinfectant on the blood
- Absorb the spill with paper towels Correct answer.
Explanation
Blood spills are first absorbed with disposable paper towels to remove the visible material. The area is then cleaned and disinfected with an EPA-registered hospital-grade product.
How long should a cosmetologist scrub hands with soap and warm water?
- At least 20 seconds Correct answer.
- 1 minute
- Until dry
- 5 seconds
Explanation
Hands should be scrubbed with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, including between fingers and under nails. This friction and time help remove microorganisms.
Which practice reduces the risk of electric shock in the salon?
- Keep cords dry and unplug by the plug Correct answer.
- Unplug equipment by pulling the cord
- Plug several high-watt tools into one outlet
- Use water to clean electrical tools
Explanation
Electric shock risk is reduced by keeping cords and equipment away from water and by disconnecting equipment at the plug. Pulling cords or overloading outlets can damage equipment and create hazards.
Flammable liquids such as polish remover should be:
- Poured down the drain after use
- Stored in a cool area away from ignition Correct answer.
- Stored near heat to keep them liquid
- Kept in unlabeled bottles
Explanation
Flammable liquids must be kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames and stored in a cool, ventilated area. This prevents accidental ignition and fire.
A patch test for hair color should be performed:
- Only if the client requests it
- Immediately before the service
- One week after the service
- 24 to 48 hours before the service Correct answer.
Explanation
A patch test is performed 24 to 48 hours before a color service to detect an allergic reaction. This allows time to observe a reaction before the full service is done.
How should clean, disinfected implements be stored?
- In the disinfectant solution
- In a covered container Correct answer.
- In a towel on the station
- In a pocket or apron
Explanation
Disinfected implements should be stored in a clean, covered container or closed drawer to prevent contamination before use. Leaving them in disinfectant or loose on a station risks contamination.
A client's service record should include:
- The cosmetologist's home address
- Only the client's phone number
- Products used and reactions noted Correct answer.
- The client's payment method
Explanation
Service records document products used, services performed, and any reactions so future services can be provided safely. They also support consumer protection and professional accountability.
Under OSHA's bloodborne pathogens standard, the salon employer must provide:
- A written exposure control plan Correct answer.
- A uniform allowance for each employee
- Free lunch for all staff
- A yearly vacation allowance
Explanation
OSHA requires employers with at-risk workers to have a written exposure control plan, training, and appropriate protective equipment. This protects employees from bloodborne pathogen exposure.
Which statement about bacterial spores is accurate?
- They survive disinfection and require sterilization Correct answer.
- They are easily removed with soap and water
- They are killed by standard quaternary disinfectants
- They are a type of virus
Explanation
Bacterial spores are highly resistant and may survive ordinary disinfection. Destroying them requires sterilization with appropriate equipment and procedures.
Which agency registers disinfectants and reviews their efficacy claims?
- FDA
- State board of cosmetology
- OSHA
- EPA Correct answer.
Explanation
The Environmental Protection Agency registers disinfectants and reviews claims such as hospital-grade or tuberculocidal. The FDA regulates cosmetics, and OSHA enforces workplace safety.
Whirlpool foot spas must be disinfected after each client because they can harbor:
- M. fortuitum Correct answer.
- HIV
- Influenza virus
- Hepatitis A virus
Explanation
Mycobacterium fortuitum can form biofilms in foot spa plumbing and cause skin infections. Foot spas require thorough cleaning and disinfection according to the manufacturer's directions after each client.
A cosmetologist finishes a haircut with a straight razor and must dispose of the used blade. Where should the blade be placed?
- In the lined trash can in the break room
- In the towel hamper with the soiled linens
- In a closed, puncture-resistant sharps container Correct answer.
- In the disinfectant jar with the combs
Explanation
Used blades are both sharp and potentially contaminated with bloodborne pathogens, so they belong in a closed, puncture-resistant sharps container. Ordinary waste streams expose anyone who handles trash, laundry, or liquid waste to a penetrating injury.
Under standard (universal) precautions, which materials should a cosmetologist treat as possibly carrying bloodborne pathogens?
- All blood and body fluids, regardless of how the client looks Correct answer.
- Only blood from clients who appear visibly ill
- Only fluids from clients who disclose a diagnosis
- Only blood that is visible on an implement or towel
Explanation
Standard precautions assume that every person's blood and certain body fluids may carry pathogens, so barrier protection is used for every client. A client's appearance or self-reported history is never used to decide whether precautions are needed.
Which federal agency regulates the labeling of cosmetics such as shampoo and hair color?
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration
- Federal Trade Commission
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Food and Drug Administration Correct answer.
Explanation
The Food and Drug Administration oversees cosmetics and their labeling under the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, setting rules for ingredient declaration, warnings, and safety. The EPA handles disinfectants and pesticides, OSHA covers workplace safety, and the FTC covers advertising claims.
Which body issues a license to practice cosmetology and may suspend or revoke it for unsafe or unsanitary practices?
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration
- The state board of cosmetology Correct answer.
- The Food and Drug Administration
- The Environmental Protection Agency
Explanation
Each state's board of cosmetology enforces the state cosmetology law through licensing, inspections, and disciplinary action. Federal agencies such as OSHA, the EPA, and the FDA set separate workplace, chemical, and product rules but do not license individual practitioners.
A cosmetologist needs to know exactly how long a metal implement must stay immersed in the salon disinfectant. Which source should be followed?
- The client's signed service record
- The salon owner's posted policy
- The manufacturer's label directions Correct answer.
- The OSHA bloodborne pathogens standard
Explanation
Contact time is established by the manufacturer through efficacy testing and printed on the EPA-registered label for each specific product and dilution. Following a shorter time than the label states means the organisms listed on the label may survive.
What does the EPA registration number printed on a salon disinfectant label indicate?
- It guarantees that all pathogens will be killed
- It is required only on hospital-grade products
- It shows the EPA registered the labeled claims Correct answer.
- It identifies the salon that purchased the product
Explanation
A registration number means the manufacturer submitted efficacy and safety data supporting the product's labeled claims and the EPA registered the product for those uses. It does not certify that every organism, including all spores, will be destroyed.
Which statement best describes methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)?
- A parasite that burrows into the scalp and lays eggs
- A bacterium that resists antibiotics Correct answer.
- A virus that infects the liver
- A fungus that causes scalp scaling
Explanation
MRSA is a staphylococcal bacterium that has developed resistance to many common antibiotics and spreads by direct skin contact and contaminated items such as towels or implements. Because it survives on surfaces, hand hygiene and proper disinfection of implements are the main controls in a salon.
A cosmetologist is cut by a sharp implement that was just used on a client. What should she do first?
- Wash the wound with soap and running water Correct answer.
- Apply a disinfectant product directly to the wound
- Finish the service and report the injury at the end of the day
- Cover the wound with a bandage and keep working
Explanation
For a sharps injury the immediate action is to wash the wound with soap and running water, then report the exposure so the employer can arrange the required post-exposure evaluation. Prompt washing reduces the dose of any contaminant, and reporting starts the medical follow-up.
A cosmetologist has a small cut on her finger and is scheduled to shampoo clients. What is the appropriate action before starting work?
- Wear a glove only when blood is visible
- Cover it with a bandage and wear a glove Correct answer.
- Take leave from work until the cut is fully healed
- Apply alcohol and work without a bandage
Explanation
Any break in the skin must be covered with a bandage and then protected with a glove or finger cot so pathogens cannot enter the wound or pass from the cosmetologist to the client. Covering both the wound and the hand maintains the barrier throughout the service.
Which statement about sterilizing implements in an autoclave is accurate?
- Autoclaving can replace hand washing
- Autoclaving is required for all nail tools
- Items must be cleaned before sterilization Correct answer.
- Plastic implements can always be autoclaved
Explanation
Sterilization destroys all microbial life including spores, but it only works on items already free of debris because soil shields organisms from heat and steam. Materials must also be able to withstand the heat and pressure, and autoclaving never substitutes for hand hygiene.
A chemical product splashes into a client's eye during a service. What should the cosmetologist do?
- Have the client rest with eyes closed
- Flush the eye with water for 15 minutes Correct answer.
- Apply a soothing ointment to the eye
- Wait to see whether irritation develops
Explanation
Chemical splashes to the eye are flushed with lukewarm water for about 15 minutes, following the product label's first-aid directions, and the client is then referred for medical evaluation. Removing the chemical quickly limits tissue damage.
A small fire begins in an electrical outlet at a styling station. Which class of fire extinguisher is designed for energized electrical equipment?
- Class D
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C Correct answer.
Explanation
Class C extinguishers use non-conducting agents such as carbon dioxide to fight fires involving energized electrical equipment, and water must never be used because it conducts electricity. Class A covers ordinary combustibles, Class B flammable liquids, and Class D combustible metals.
Why should a cosmetologist avoid shaking soiled towels before placing them in the laundry hamper?
- Shaking releases microorganisms into the air Correct answer.
- Shaking spreads chemical fumes through the room
- Shaking causes static that attracts dust and lint
- Shaking stretches the fabric and causes wear
Explanation
Shaking forces soil, skin cells, and microorganisms into the air, where they can be inhaled or settle onto clean surfaces and implements. Soiled linens are handled gently, held away from the body, and placed directly into a closed container.
Which sequence correctly describes processing reusable implements between clients?
- Rinse, dry, disinfect, clean, store
- Clean, disinfect, then rinse and store the implements
- Clean, rinse, dry, disinfect, store Correct answer.
- Disinfect, clean, rinse, store
Explanation
Reusable implements are scrubbed clean of all debris, rinsed, dried, fully immersed in disinfectant for the labeled contact time, and then stored in a clean, covered area. Disinfectant cannot penetrate soil, so cleaning must come before disinfection, and residual water can dilute the product.
A cosmetologist keeps the same disinfectant bath all week, adding implements to it each day. Why is this unsafe?
- Adding implements lengthens the required contact time
- Soil and dilution reduce the solution's killing power Correct answer.
- Evaporation makes the solution too concentrated to use
- Disinfectants only work in metal containers after 24 hours
Explanation
Every implement added carries organic soil and rinse water into the bath, which neutralizes the active ingredient and dilutes the product below its tested concentration, so the labeled kill claims no longer apply. Solutions must be mixed at the labeled dilution and replaced as the manufacturer directs, and at least whenever they are visibly soiled.
When performing a shampoo service in the salon, which draping setup is standard?
- Cape with no towel underneath
- Plastic apron fastened at the waist
- Towel only, wrapped around the neck
- Cape with a towel at the neckline Correct answer.
Explanation
A shampoo cape is placed over a towel that is folded around the neckline, so the towel absorbs water and protects the client's skin and clothing. The cape is then fastened over the towel to keep the client dry.
Which hair property describes the ability of the hair to absorb moisture?
- Density
- Elasticity
- Porosity Correct answer.
- Texture
Explanation
Porosity is the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture, and it depends mainly on the condition of the cuticle layer. Density refers to the number of hairs per square inch, elasticity is the ability to stretch and return, and texture is the diameter of the individual strand.
What is the primary purpose of a shampoo?
- To straighten the hair shaft
- To close the cuticle permanently
- To cleanse the hair and scalp Correct answer.
- To deposit color into the cortex
Explanation
Shampoo removes sebum, perspiration, product buildup, and environmental debris from the hair and scalp. It does not permanently alter the structure of the hair or deposit color.
Which blow dryer attachment concentrates airflow for precise, smooth styling?
- Comb attachment
- Concentrator nozzle Correct answer.
- Pick
- Diffuser
Explanation
A concentrator nozzle narrows the airflow so it can be aimed at a small section, which helps smooth the cuticle and control the direction of the hair. A diffuser spreads air for curls, a pick lifts curls, and a comb attachment detangles and stretches the hair.
To produce a tighter curl, the stylist should select a curling iron with:
- Longer barrel length
- Wider clamp opening
- Larger barrel diameter
- Smaller barrel diameter Correct answer.
Explanation
Curl size is determined by the diameter of the barrel, so a smaller barrel produces a tighter curl and a larger barrel produces a looser wave. Barrel length and clamp width affect how much hair can be wrapped, not the tightness of the curl.
In haircutting, the first section of hair that establishes the length is called the:
- Parting
- Guideline Correct answer.
- Perimeter
- Elevation
Explanation
The guideline, also called the guide, is the section cut first and used as a reference for the length of the remaining hair. The perimeter is the outer hairline, elevation is the angle at which hair is held, and a parting is a line that divides sections.
Healthy, normal hair should stretch approximately what percentage of its length when wet?
- 10 percent
- 80 percent
- 50 percent Correct answer.
- 20 percent
Explanation
Wet hair in good condition stretches about 40 to 50 percent of its length and then returns to its original length. Hair that stretches much less has low elasticity and is more prone to breakage.
Which scalp massage movement consists of light, gliding strokes over the scalp?
- Friction
- Petrissage
- Effleurage Correct answer.
- Tapotement
Explanation
Effleurage is a continuous, light gliding movement used to begin and end a massage. Tapotement is a tapping movement, petrissage is kneading, and friction is brisk rubbing.
Which test indicates how quickly hair absorbs water and therefore its porosity?
- The float test Correct answer.
- The patch test
- The strand test
- The pull test
Explanation
In the float test, a clean strand of hair is placed in water; hair that sinks quickly is highly porous, while hair that floats is resistant. The strand test checks processing results, the patch test checks for allergy, and the pull test checks elasticity.
After a sodium hydroxide relaxer service, the hair is shampooed with a neutralizing shampoo to:
- Soften the new curl pattern
- Restore the hair's natural pH Correct answer.
- Add shine to the cuticle
- Increase the hair's porosity
Explanation
Sodium hydroxide is strongly alkaline, so an acid-balanced neutralizing shampoo lowers the hair's pH and removes relaxer residue. This helps stop processing and returns the hair toward its normal pH range.