CLS Contraindications & Adverse Events Management Flashcards
6 cards from real CLS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CLS Contraindications & Adverse Events Management flashcards as text
Which wavelength-specific contraindication applies to using alexandrite (755 nm) laser for hair removal?
Answer: It is contraindicated for very dark (Fitzpatrick V–VI) skin types due to high melanin absorption and burn risk
The alexandrite 755 nm laser has high melanin absorption, making it unsafe for Fitzpatrick V–VI skin types due to the significant risk of epidermal burns and pigmentation changes.
What is the correct first aid response for a superficial laser burn presenting as erythema and mild edema immediately post-treatment?
Answer: Cool the area with saline or cool water, apply a soothing agent, and monitor for progression
Cooling with saline or cool water reduces thermal damage progression, and a soothing topical agent helps manage inflammation while the area is monitored for worsening.
Paradoxical hypertrichosis is a known adverse event associated with which laser treatment?
Answer: Low-fluence laser hair removal, particularly in darker skin types
Paradoxical hypertrichosis (increased hair growth) is a rare adverse event associated with low-fluence laser hair removal, especially in darker skin types or hormonal areas like the face.
What is the mechanism behind post-laser purpura (bruising) that can occur after certain laser treatments?
Answer: Selective photothermolysis of cutaneous blood vessels causing microhemorrhage
Post-laser purpura results from selective photothermolysis targeting oxyhemoglobin in vessels, causing vessel rupture and microhemorrhage beneath the skin.
Which screening question is most critical to include in a pre-laser treatment intake form to identify photosensitivity risk?
Answer: 'Are you currently taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal products?'
Many medications, supplements, and herbal products have photosensitizing properties; identifying them during intake allows the CLS to adjust treatment or require medical clearance.
When treating a client with a pacemaker, which type of laser therapy requires special precautions or avoidance near the device?
Answer: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices that may emit electromagnetic interference affecting the pacemaker
Certain LLLT and other devices generating electromagnetic fields may interfere with pacemaker function, requiring medical clearance and treatment planning that avoids proximity to the device.