Sanitation & Infection Control Flashcards

Which type of pathogen is responsible for ringworm in salon clients?

Answer: Fungus

Ringworm (tinea) is caused by a fungus, not an actual worm, and is highly contagious in salon settings.

What is the minimum contact time required for EPA-registered disinfectants to be effective on non-porous salon tools?

Answer: 10 minutes

Most EPA-registered disinfectants require a full 10-minute contact time to effectively kill pathogens on non-porous implements.

A client arrives with an open cut on their scalp. What is the correct protocol?

Answer: Refuse service and refer to a physician

Services should not be performed on clients with open wounds, as this creates a risk of infection and bloodborne pathogen exposure.

Which of the following is NOT a bloodborne pathogen of concern in salons?

Answer: Influenza

Influenza is an airborne/respiratory pathogen, not a bloodborne pathogen; HIV and Hepatitis B and C are the primary bloodborne concerns in salons.

What does the term 'efficacy' mean in the context of disinfectants?

Answer: The ability of the product to kill specific pathogens

Efficacy refers to a disinfectant's demonstrated ability to destroy or inactivate specific microorganisms as tested and approved by the EPA.

Autoclave sterilization uses which combination of conditions to destroy all microbial life?

Answer: Steam and high pressure

An autoclave uses pressurized steam (typically 250°F/121°C at 15 psi) to achieve sterilization by destroying all microorganisms including spores.

Which of the following actions constitutes proper sanitation of a shampoo bowl after each client?

Answer: Clean with soap and water, then disinfect with an EPA-registered product

Proper sanitation requires first cleaning with soap and water to remove debris, then applying an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill pathogens.