Sanitation, Infection Control & Safety Practice Questions

Explanation: Sterilization destroys all microbial life including bacterial spores, using an autoclave (steam under pressure), dry heat oven, or chemical sterilant. Disinfection destroys most pathogens (but not all spores) using EPA-registered disinfectants. Sanitization reduces microbial counts to safe levels. In esthetic settings, most implements are disinfected, not sterilized, unless they penetrate the skin.

Explanation: The Spaulding Classification system categorizes medical/esthetic items by infection risk: Non-critical (contact intact skin only) → sanitization/low-level disinfection; Semi-critical (contact mucous membranes) → high-level disinfection; Critical (penetrate skin or sterile tissue) → sterilization. Lancets and any implement that breaks the skin are critical items and must be single-use or sterilized.

Explanation: Proper handwashing remains the single most effective method of infection control. The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Gloves supplement but do not replace handwashing. UV sterilizer boxes have not been proven to reliably sterilize implements and should not be relied upon as a primary sterilization method.

Explanation: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates disinfectant products (germicides, fungicides, virucides) sold in the United States. Disinfectants used in salons must be EPA-registered and used according to label directions. OSHA regulates worker safety (bloodborne pathogens standard, Hazard Communication). The FDA regulates cosmetics and drugs. State cosmetology boards set specific requirements for salon disinfection.

Explanation: OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard requires Universal Precautions (also called Standard Precautions) — treating all blood, OPIM (other potentially infectious materials), and body fluids as if they are infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV. This includes wearing gloves whenever there is potential for contact with blood or OPIM, proper disposal of sharps, and having an exposure control plan.