8.3. Practice Questions (Mixed Domain)
1. An esthetician notices that a disinfectant used in her salon is labeled "EPA-registered, bactericidal and virucidal." Is this product acceptable for use on salon tools?
A) Yes, because it is EPA-registered
B) Yes, because it kills bacteria and viruses
C) No, because it must also be fungicidal
D) No, because only hospital-grade products are acceptable
Answer: C — All three properties (bactericidal, virucidal, AND fungicidal) are required for salon tool disinfection.
2. A client presents with an active cold sore (herpes simplex) on her upper lip. She requests an eyebrow waxing service. What is the most appropriate response?
A) Perform the eyebrow service, carefully avoiding the lip area
B) Decline all services and reschedule when the outbreak resolves
C) Perform the service with gloves
D) Apply antiseptic to the area before proceeding
Answer: A — Herpes simplex is a contraindication for the affected area (lip). Eyebrow waxing is in a different area and can be performed. Note: If the outbreak were widespread or the esthetician had concerns about cross-contamination risk, declining all services would be defensible — but the exam answer here tests whether students know the contraindication is site-specific.
3. Which of the following is the FIRST step when a blood exposure incident occurs during a facial?
A) Apply antiseptic to the wound
B) Remove gloves and wash hands
C) Stop the service and document the incident
D) Continue the service while monitoring the situation
Answer: B — Stop the service (implied by removing gloves) and immediately wash exposed skin is the first response. Document comes after immediate response.
4. A client mentions she stopped using Accutane (isotretinoin) four months ago. She wants her upper lip waxed. What should the esthetician do?
A) Proceed — four months is sufficient time
B) Perform threading instead, which is gentler
C) Decline waxing; the minimum wait is 6 months after discontinuation
D) Patch test first, then proceed if no reaction
Answer: C — Isotretinoin requires a minimum 6-month (some protocols say 12-month) wait before waxing. Patch testing does not resolve the contraindication.
5. The process of removing visible debris from tools using soap and water before disinfecting is called:
A) Sanitizing
B) Sterilizing
C) Cleaning
D) Decontaminating
Answer: C — Cleaning (with soap and water) removes visible debris. It is the required first step before disinfection.
