Client Consultation, Communication, and Professional Ethics
This domain tests whether you can gather information, set expectations, protect confidentiality, and stay in scope. Good consultation prevents service failures and injuries as much as it improves satisfaction.
Consultation essentials
Ask about allergies, skin and nail conditions, medications, recent surgeries, diabetes, circulation problems, and occupation. Note prior reactions to acrylics, gels, or polish. Ask what the client wants and confirm shape, length, color, and maintenance. Explain risks, aftercare, and removal. Document the service, products used, and any referral. Keep records private and share only on a need-to-know basis.
Ethics and scope
Do not diagnose disease, promise a cure, or treat infection. Do not cover a suspicious nail to hide it. Respect client boundaries, avoid gossip, and do not perform services you are not licensed or trained to do. If a client refuses a necessary safety step, you may decline service. Refer medical concerns to a physician or dermatologist.
Worked example
A client on a blood thinner wants cuticle cutting. You explain the bleeding risk, offer gentle cuticle care instead, and document the conversation. If bleeding occurs, stop, glove, apply pressure, clean, and disinfect. The reasoning is that informed consent does not remove the duty to prevent injury.
Traps
Diagnosing fungus, promising "permanent" results, discussing another client's information, and skipping medical-history questions are common errors.