OR Esthetician study materials
OR Esthetician study resources

OR Esthetician practice questions

One question at a time. Build your OR Esthetician understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Under Oregon law, a person must hold a valid esthetician license issued by which authority before performing esthetic services for compensation?

  1. The Oregon Health Authority
  2. The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries
  3. The Oregon Board of Cosmetology Correct answer.
  4. The Oregon Department of Education

Explanation

Oregon licenses estheticians through the Oregon Board of Cosmetology, which issues licenses and enforces the practice standards in the cosmetology statutes and administrative rules. Performing esthetic services for compensation without that license is unlawful practice.

Question 2Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which of the following is the minimum total training requirement Oregon sets for initial esthetician licensure through the current standard hour-based licensed school program?

  1. 1,700 hours
  2. 250 hours
  3. 1,000 hours
  4. 484 hours Correct answer.

Explanation

Oregon's standard hour-based esthetics program requires 444 field-of-practice hours, 20 hours of Oregon laws and rules, and 20 hours of career development. These components total 484 hours. This total applies to the standard hour-based school route specified in the question.

Question 3Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician's license is up for renewal, and the licensee has not yet completed the required continuing education. What is the consequence under Oregon rules?

  1. The license renews automatically with a written warning
  2. The license lapses and the practitioner may not perform esthetic services until requirements are met Correct answer.
  3. The licensee may continue working while earning double hours the following cycle
  4. The licensee is permanently barred from renewal

Explanation

Continuing education is a condition of renewal, so a license cannot be renewed while the requirement is unmet. Practicing on a lapsed license exposes the esthetician to disciplinary action for unlicensed practice.

Question 4Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which practice is required of an Oregon esthetician before performing a chemical exfoliation service on a new client?

  1. Obtaining written physician authorization for every client
  2. Performing a patch test and reviewing the client's skin history and contraindications Correct answer.
  3. Scheduling the service only in the morning
  4. Charging a separate sanitation fee

Explanation

Professional standards and Oregon rules require the licensee to assess the client, review health history, and check for contraindications before applying potentially reactive products. A patch test helps identify sensitivity before a full treatment.

Question 5Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

In Oregon, which task falls outside an esthetician's scope of practice?

  1. Facial massage
  2. Injecting dermal filler Correct answer.
  3. Eyebrow waxing
  4. Applying eyelash extensions

Explanation

Injecting dermal fillers is a medical procedure reserved for licensed medical professionals and is not within esthetician scope. Estheticians may perform skin care, hair removal by waxing, and lash services within their training.

Question 6Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician wants to add a new modality to the menu. Which consideration best determines whether the service may be offered under an Oregon esthetician license?

  1. Whether the service costs more than the shop's average service
  2. Whether the service falls within the statutory definition of esthetics and required training Correct answer.
  3. Whether the client signs a liability waiver
  4. Whether the equipment was purchased from an approved vendor

Explanation

Scope of practice is defined by statute and rule, so a new service must fall within the legal definition of esthetics and the licensee must be trained for it. Vendor approval, price, and waivers do not expand legal authority.

Question 7Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which sanitation practice is required for reusable implements such as tweezers and metal extractors between clients in an Oregon esthetic establishment?

  1. Cleaning and then disinfecting with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant Correct answer.
  2. Storing them in a drawer until the end of the day
  3. Rinsing under cold water only
  4. Wiping with a dry towel

Explanation

Reusable implements must be cleaned to remove debris and then disinfected with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant labeled for the purpose. Proper contact time per the product label must be observed before reuse.

Question 8Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

After a blood exposure occurs during an eyebrow waxing service, what is the esthetician's most appropriate immediate action regarding the contaminated materials?

  1. Discard them in the regular trash
  2. Store them in a closed cabinet for later disposal
  3. Rinse them and return them to the drawer
  4. Place them in a labeled biohazard bag or sharps container as appropriate and disinfect the work area Correct answer.

Explanation

Blood-contaminated items require biohazard handling, and the work surface must be cleaned and disinfected after the exposure. Oregon rules and bloodborne pathogen standards require this to protect staff and subsequent clients.

Question 9Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which document must an Oregon esthetic establishment be able to produce for inspection by the Board?

  1. The building's original construction blueprints
  2. Employee social media passwords
  3. The landlord's tax records
  4. Current licenses of practitioners and the establishment license Correct answer.

Explanation

Establishments must display or maintain current establishment and practitioner licenses for Board inspection. Licensing records are the core compliance documents the Board reviews.

Question 10Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician is moving from a booth rental to a new salon. What must happen regarding the establishment license?

  1. The practitioner's personal license must be reissued with a new number
  2. Nothing, because the license follows the practitioner
  3. The new location must hold its own establishment license before services are offered there Correct answer.
  4. The Board must approve the salon's interior design

Explanation

Establishment licenses are location-specific, so the new salon must be licensed before esthetic services are performed there. The practitioner's individual license remains valid but must be associated with a licensed establishment.

Question 11Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which of the following best describes Oregon's requirement for displaying a practitioner license?

  1. It may be kept at home as long as it is current
  2. It must be available for inspection at the licensed establishment where the practitioner works Correct answer.
  3. It must be posted on the practitioner's personal website
  4. It must be mailed to the Board annually

Explanation

A current license must be maintained and available for inspection at the establishment where services are performed. This allows the Board to verify lawful practice during an inspection.

Question 12Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician suspects a client has a contagious skin condition such as an active herpes lesion on the treatment area. What is the correct action?

  1. Treat the area with a stronger product to speed healing
  2. Apply makeup to conceal the lesion and continue
  3. Decline or postpone the service and refer the client to a physician Correct answer.
  4. Proceed but double the disinfectant concentration afterward

Explanation

Services should be declined or postponed when an active contagious condition is present, and the client should be referred for medical evaluation. Treating over infected skin risks spreading infection and harming the client.

Question 13Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which statement about Oregon's rule on the use of methyl methacrylate (MMA) liquid monomer in nail or lash-related products is accurate?

  1. MMA is allowed only in licensed salons with ventilation
  2. MMA is permitted for lash lifts
  3. MMA is permitted if the client signs a consent form
  4. MMA is prohibited for use in cosmetic nail products in Oregon Correct answer.

Explanation

Oregon prohibits the use of methyl methacrylate monomer in cosmetic nail products because of documented health risks. Consent forms or ventilation do not make prohibited products lawful.

Question 14Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

A client reports an allergic reaction after a patch test. How should the esthetician document and proceed?

  1. Record the reaction in the client record, do not perform the service, and advise medical follow-up Correct answer.
  2. Note it only if the client asks
  3. Ignore it because patch tests are optional
  4. Proceed with a diluted version of the same product

Explanation

Client records should document adverse reactions, and the service should not proceed when an allergic response is observed. Referring the client for medical evaluation protects both the client and the practitioner.

Question 15Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which records must an Oregon esthetic establishment maintain for each client service?

  1. Client name, service performed, and any reactions or relevant notes Correct answer.
  2. The client's employer and income
  3. A copy of the client's driver's license
  4. Only the payment receipt

Explanation

Service records should identify the client, the treatment performed, products used, and any reactions, supporting continuity of care and defensible practice. Collecting unrelated personal data is unnecessary and raises privacy concerns.

Question 16Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician receives a Board inspection visit. Which behavior is appropriate?

  1. Ask the inspector to return only when the owner is present
  2. Refuse entry without a warrant
  3. Allow inspection of the premises, records, and sanitation practices Correct answer.
  4. Offer the inspector a free service to speed the process

Explanation

Licensees consent to Board inspection as a condition of licensure, so the inspector must be allowed to review premises, records, and sanitation. Obstructing an inspection can itself result in discipline.

Question 17Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which of the following is an example of conduct that could result in disciplinary action against an Oregon esthetician license?

  1. Practicing while the license is suspended Correct answer.
  2. Referring a client to a dermatologist
  3. Raising service prices
  4. Attending a continuing education class online

Explanation

Practicing on a suspended license is unlicensed practice and grounds for discipline. The Board may also act on violations such as unsanitary conditions, fraud, or practicing outside scope.

Question 18Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician is unsure whether a laser hair removal device may be used under an esthetician license in Oregon. What is the soundest approach?

  1. Ask a colleague at another salon
  2. Verify the scope of practice in Oregon statute and rule before offering the service Correct answer.
  3. Use it and see whether the Board objects
  4. Rely on a manufacturer's marketing claim that estheticians may use it

Explanation

Laser and light-based devices are generally outside esthetician scope unless a specific authorization applies, so the licensee must verify against Oregon statute and rule. Manufacturer claims and informal advice are not reliable legal authority.

Question 19Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Which standard applies to the handling of clean versus soiled linens in an Oregon esthetic establishment?

  1. Soiled linens must be kept separate from clean linens and stored in a closed container Correct answer.
  2. Linens may be reused after being folded
  3. Linens need only be changed weekly
  4. Clean and soiled linens may be stored together if labeled

Explanation

Separation of clean and soiled linens prevents cross-contamination and is a core sanitation rule. Soiled linens belong in a closed, designated container until laundered.

Question 20Oregon Laws, Rules, and Regulations

An esthetician wants to advertise a service as producing permanent hair removal results. How does Oregon treat such advertising?

  1. It is permitted only in print media
  2. It is permitted if the client signs a consent form
  3. It is misleading advertising and may be subject to discipline if results are not substantiated Correct answer.
  4. It is permitted if the price is disclosed

Explanation

Advertising must be truthful and not misrepresent the results a service can achieve, and unsubstantiated claims can lead to disciplinary action. Esthetic hair removal methods generally do not achieve permanent removal.

Question 21Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

In Oregon, which document must an esthetician be able to show a health inspector before performing a chemical exfoliation service on a client?

  1. A current esthetician license issued by the Oregon Board of Cosmetology Correct answer.
  2. A manufacturer's certificate of product training
  3. A written client consent form signed at the first visit
  4. A business license from the city where the salon operates

Explanation

Oregon requires anyone performing esthetic services, including chemical exfoliation, to hold a current license issued by the Oregon Board of Cosmetology. Product training certificates and city business licenses do not authorize practice, and a consent form is a client record rather than a credential.

Question 22Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the correct procedure for handling a blood exposure on an esthetician's gloved hand during a service?

  1. Wipe the glove with a disinfectant wipe and continue the service
  2. Rinse the glove with cool water and let it air dry
  3. Remove gloves, wash hands with soap and water, then reglove Correct answer.
  4. Apply a bandage directly over the glove and keep working

Explanation

When a glove is contaminated with blood, the glove must be removed and hands washed with soap and water before new gloves are applied. Disinfecting or rinsing a glove does not make it safe, and bandaging over a contaminated glove leaves the exposure in place.

Question 23Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which item is classified as a single-use implement in an esthetician's treatment room?

  1. Stainless steel extraction tool
  2. Reusable spatula for wax
  3. Glass mixing bowl
  4. Disposable lancet for blemish extraction Correct answer.

Explanation

A lancet penetrates skin and cannot be reliably cleaned and disinfected for reuse, so it is a single-use item that must be discarded in a sharps container. Metal extractors, glass bowls, and reusable spatulas are designed for cleaning and disinfection between clients.

Question 24Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician is preparing a treatment room after a facial. Which surface requires disinfection rather than simple cleaning?

  1. The floor beneath the facial bed
  2. The facial bed sheet that will be replaced
  3. The treatment stool the client sat on Correct answer.
  4. The bottle of massage oil returned to the cabinet

Explanation

The stool is a nonporous surface contacted during the service and must be cleaned and then disinfected between clients. Bed linens are replaced rather than disinfected, floors are cleaned routinely, and product bottles are wiped but not treated as contaminated equipment.

Question 25Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement correctly describes the difference between sanitation and disinfection?

  1. Disinfection removes visible debris, while sanitation destroys bacterial spores
  2. Disinfection reduces pathogens on surfaces, while sanitation lowers microbial counts to a safe level Correct answer.
  3. Sanitation and disinfection are interchangeable terms in salon practice
  4. Sanitation kills all microorganisms, while disinfection only reduces them

Explanation

Sanitation lowers the number of microorganisms to a safe public health level, while disinfection destroys most pathogenic organisms on nonporous surfaces. Neither term means sterilization, and the two processes are not interchangeable.

Question 26Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which concentration of EPA-registered hospital disinfectant is typically required for immersion of reusable metal implements in Oregon salons?

  1. The lowest dilution printed on the label to save product
  2. The label's specified dilution and contact time for hospital-grade disinfection Correct answer.
  3. Any dilution, provided the tools soak overnight
  4. A double-strength mix to shorten the soaking time

Explanation

Reusable implements must be cleaned and then immersed in an EPA-registered disinfectant mixed and used exactly according to the label's dilution and contact time. Altering the dilution or extending soak time does not substitute for following label directions.

Question 27Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A client arrives for a facial with an open, weeping cold sore on the lip. What is the appropriate esthetician response?

  1. Perform the facial but avoid the mouth area
  2. Apply a topical antiseptic and proceed
  3. Wear two pairs of gloves and continue
  4. Reschedule the service until the lesion has healed Correct answer.

Explanation

An open, weeping herpetic lesion is a contagious condition and a contraindication for facial services, so the appointment should be rescheduled. Working around the lesion, applying antiseptic, or doubling gloves does not eliminate the risk of spread.

Question 28Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should an esthetician dispose of a lancet used to extract a comedone?

  1. Drop it into the lined wastebasket
  2. Place it in a puncture-resistant sharps container Correct answer.
  3. Wrap it in a paper towel and place it in the trash
  4. Recap it and store it for the next client

Explanation

Lancets are contaminated sharps and must go directly into a puncture-resistant sharps container. Placing them in regular trash, recapping for reuse, or using a lined wastebasket exposes staff and custodians to needlestick injury.

Question 29Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the correct hand hygiene step immediately before donning gloves for a facial?

  1. Wash hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly Correct answer.
  2. Rinse hands with warm water alone
  3. Sanitize only the fingertips with alcohol
  4. Apply hand lotion to protect the skin under the gloves

Explanation

Hands must be washed with soap and water and dried completely before gloves are applied, because moisture and residue under gloves promote microbial growth. Lotion, partial sanitizing, or water alone does not achieve clean hands.

Question 30Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which practice best prevents cross-contamination when using a cream product during a facial?

  1. Dispense product onto a clean spatula or into a disposable cup before use Correct answer.
  2. Dip a used spatula back into the jar for a second application
  3. Scoop product with clean fingers from the jar each time
  4. Pour product back into the jar after the service

Explanation

Product should be removed from its container with a clean spatula or dispensed into a disposable cup so the container stays free of client contact. Fingers and used spatulas introduce microorganisms, and returning product to the jar contaminates the entire supply.

Question 31Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A client reports a known allergy to lidocaine. Which action should the esthetician take before a numbing product is applied?

  1. Check the product label for lidocaine and select a lidocaine-free alternative Correct answer.
  2. Use the product but remove it after two minutes
  3. Apply a small test patch and proceed if no reaction appears
  4. Dilute the numbing product with water before use

Explanation

The esthetician should verify the ingredient list and choose a product that contains no lidocaine or related amide anesthetic before proceeding. A test patch, dilution, or quick removal does not eliminate the risk of an allergic reaction.

Question 32Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which of the following is the correct way to store clean implements before a service?

  1. In a closed cabinet or covered container separate from soiled items Correct answer.
  2. On a shelf above the sink where water splashes
  3. In an open tray on the counter next to used tools
  4. In a drawer with towels used during the previous service

Explanation

Clean, disinfected implements must be stored in a closed cabinet or covered container apart from soiled items to prevent recontamination. Open trays, shared drawers with used linens, and splash zones expose clean tools to contamination.

Question 33Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement about the use of an autoclave in an esthetician's practice is accurate?

  1. Autoclaving is only necessary for linens
  2. Autoclaving is required for all metal implements in Oregon salons
  3. Autoclaving sterilizes implements but does not remove debris first Correct answer.
  4. Autoclaving replaces the need for cleaning before disinfection

Explanation

An autoclave uses steam under pressure to sterilize items, but implements must be cleaned of visible debris first because soil can shield microorganisms. Autoclaving does not replace cleaning, and it is not required for every metal tool.

Question 34Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which of these is a standard precaution that applies to every client in an esthetic practice?

  1. Wearing gloves whenever contact with blood or body fluids is possible Correct answer.
  2. Requiring clients to sign a health waiver
  3. Disinfecting tools only when a client appears ill
  4. Testing every client for infectious disease before service

Explanation

Standard precautions require treating all blood and body fluids as potentially infectious and using barriers such as gloves whenever contact is possible. Testing clients, waivers, or selective disinfection based on appearance does not meet standard precautions.

Question 35Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A bottle of disinfectant was mixed three weeks ago and stored in an open container. What should the esthetician do?

  1. Discard it and mix a fresh solution according to the label Correct answer.
  2. Top it off with fresh concentrate and continue
  3. Use it until the label's expiration date passes
  4. Add water to restore the original volume

Explanation

Disinfectant solutions lose potency over time, and an open container is exposed to evaporation and contamination, so it should be discarded and freshly prepared per label directions. Topping off or diluting an old batch does not restore its labeled efficacy.

Question 36Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the primary reason an esthetician should keep Material Safety Data Sheets, now called Safety Data Sheets, for salon products?

  1. To provide hazard, handling, and first-aid information for staff Correct answer.
  2. To prove the products were purchased from an approved vendor
  3. To document the cost of each product
  4. To satisfy client requests for ingredient lists

Explanation

Safety Data Sheets communicate a product's hazards, safe handling, and first-aid measures so staff can respond to spills or exposures. They are not purchasing records, client ingredient references, or cost documentation.

Question 37Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician develops a rash on both hands after several days of wearing gloves during treatments. What is the most appropriate first step?

  1. Apply a prescription cream under the gloves
  2. Stop wearing gloves entirely
  3. Double the gloves to create a barrier
  4. Switch to a different glove material and consult a physician if symptoms persist Correct answer.

Explanation

A rash may indicate an allergy to a glove material, so switching to an alternative such as nitrile and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist is appropriate. Abandoning gloves violates standard precautions, and doubling gloves or using prescription creams under gloves does not address the cause.

Question 38Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which of the following best describes the proper handling of a puncture wound sustained from a contaminated implement?

  1. Ignore it if bleeding stops quickly
  2. Rinse with disinfectant and apply a bandage
  3. Apply pressure with a towel and finish the service first
  4. Wash the wound with soap and water, report it, and seek medical evaluation Correct answer.

Explanation

A puncture from a contaminated implement is an exposure incident requiring immediate washing with soap and water, reporting per the salon's exposure plan, and prompt medical evaluation. Disinfectant on the skin, delayed care, or ignoring the wound can allow infection to develop.

Question 39Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which condition makes a client ineligible for a waxing service until cleared?

  1. Recent use of isotretinoin for acne Correct answer.
  2. A preference for hard wax
  3. Use of a topical vitamin C serum at home
  4. A history of sensitive skin

Explanation

Isotretinoin thins the skin and impairs healing, so waxing can cause skin lifting or injury and should be postponed until the client is cleared. Vitamin C serum, sensitive skin history, and wax preference are not absolute contraindications.

Question 40Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should soiled linens be handled after a treatment?

  1. Fold them and return them to the linen cabinet
  2. Store them in the same bin as clean towels
  3. Place them in a closed, labeled receptacle away from clean supplies Correct answer.
  4. Shake them out over the treatment table to remove debris

Explanation

Soiled linens must be placed in a closed, labeled receptacle that is kept separate from clean supplies to prevent cross-contamination. Shaking disperses contaminants, and folding or co-mingling with clean linens spreads contamination.

Question 41Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician plans to perform extractions. Which preparation most directly protects both the esthetician and the client?

  1. Dimming the treatment room lights
  2. Wearing gloves and eye protection while working Correct answer.
  3. Applying a warming mask before extractions
  4. Using a scented candle to relax the client

Explanation

Extractions can cause fluid release, so gloves and eye protection are the barriers that protect both parties from contact with blood and sebum. A warming mask, dim lighting, and candles may affect comfort but do not provide infection control.

Question 42Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement accurately describes the role of the Oregon Board of Cosmetology in salon safety?

  1. It manufactures EPA-registered disinfectants
  2. It provides medical care for exposed clients
  3. It licenses practitioners and enforces sanitation rules for salons Correct answer.
  4. It sets national OSHA standards

Explanation

The Oregon Board of Cosmetology licenses practitioners and enforces sanitation and safety rules for licensed facilities. It does not make disinfectants, provide medical care, or set federal OSHA standards.

Question 43Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which practice creates a fire hazard in an esthetic treatment room?

  1. Labeling all secondary containers
  2. Storing alcohol and other flammable products away from heat sources
  3. Keeping a fire extinguisher mounted near the exit
  4. Placing a hot wax warmer near a curtain and unattended Correct answer.

Explanation

Wax warmers generate heat and must be kept away from combustible materials such as curtains and never left unattended. Storing flammables away from heat, keeping an extinguisher, and labeling containers are safe practices.

Question 44Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A client with a known latex allergy is scheduled for a facial. Which preparation is most appropriate?

  1. Ask the client to bring their own gloves
  2. Proceed without gloves to avoid latex contact
  3. Use latex gloves but remove them quickly
  4. Use nitrile gloves and confirm other latex-free supplies Correct answer.

Explanation

For a latex-allergic client, the esthetician should use nitrile or other latex-free gloves and verify that other supplies such as bands and sponges are latex-free. Quick removal, client-supplied gloves, or skipping gloves does not provide reliable protection.

Question 45Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which sequence correctly describes reprocessing a reusable metal extractor after use?

  1. Rinse, then store, then disinfect before the next client
  2. Store, then clean and disinfect at the end of the day
  3. Disinfect, then clean, then store
  4. Clean, then disinfect, then store in a covered container Correct answer.

Explanation

Reusable implements are first cleaned of visible debris, then disinfected according to the label, and finally stored in a covered container to stay clean. Disinfecting before cleaning or delaying reprocessing allows contamination to remain or spread.

Question 46Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician is setting up a treatment room and needs to place a container for used gauze and cotton pads. Which setup best meets Oregon infection-control expectations for contaminated waste during a facial service?

  1. A closed cabinet drawer where soiled items are stored until the end of the week
  2. A sealed biohazard box kept in the retail display area for client visibility
  3. A lined waste container placed close to the treatment area and emptied at the end of the day Correct answer.
  4. An open trash can shared with the reception area so staff can empty it less often

Explanation

Contaminated waste should be deposited in a lined container kept near the point of use so soiled materials are not carried through clean areas, and it should be emptied routinely rather than accumulating. Storing or displaying contaminated waste in client or retail spaces creates cross-contamination risk.

Question 47Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Before beginning a manicure, an esthetician inspects the client's hands and finds a small cut with dried blood on one finger. Which action reflects correct bloodborne-pathogen precautions?

  1. Decline to treat the area and refer the client to a physician for clearance
  2. Proceed with the service but avoid using any implements near that finger
  3. Wear gloves, avoid working over the lesion, and disinfect anything that contacts blood Correct answer.
  4. Cover the cut with a bandage, then continue the service without gloves

Explanation

Standard precautions treat all blood and body fluids as potentially infectious, so the esthetician uses gloves and barriers and disinfects any implement or surface that contacts blood. A small, covered lesion does not automatically bar service, but the area must be protected and not worked over.

Question 48Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician notices the label on a spray bottle of EPA-registered disinfectant has become unreadable after repeated wiping. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Transfer the liquid to an unmarked bottle for a cleaner look
  2. Add extra concentrate to the bottle to compensate for uncertainty
  3. Keep using the bottle and rely on memory for the dilution ratio
  4. Relabel the bottle with the product name and dilution details or replace it Correct answer.

Explanation

Disinfectant containers must remain labeled with the product identity and use instructions so the correct dilution and contact time can be followed. An unreadable label means the product cannot be reliably used until it is properly relabeled or replaced.

Question 49Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

During a facial, the esthetician's glove tears while extracting a comedone and a small amount of blood contacts the gloved hand. What is the correct immediate sequence?

  1. Wash the gloved hand with soap, then finish the extraction before changing gloves
  2. Apply disinfectant to the glove and continue the service without changing it
  3. Wipe the glove with a dry towel and continue until the service ends
  4. Remove the glove, wash hands with soap and water, and put on a new glove Correct answer.

Explanation

When a glove is torn or visibly contaminated, the esthetician removes it, performs hand hygiene with soap and water, and dons a new glove before continuing. Continuing with a compromised glove exposes both parties to bloodborne pathogens.

Question 50Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician wants to confirm that a high-level disinfectant is being used correctly for a semi-critical item such as a reusable metal comedone extractor. Which factor most directly determines whether the disinfection is effective?

  1. The manufacturer's specified contact time at the correct dilution Correct answer.
  2. The temperature of the rinse water used before soaking
  3. The number of clients scheduled between disinfection cycles
  4. The color of the storage tray used for the implement after disinfection

Explanation

Disinfection depends on using the correct dilution for the manufacturer's specified contact time; shortening either step leaves pathogens viable on semi-critical items. Tray color, scheduling, and rinse temperature do not determine germicidal efficacy.