Cosmetology · Infection Control and Safety

The presence of pus in a lesion is generally a sign of:

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Correct answer

A bacterial infection

A A bacterial infection
B Normal aging
C Dry skin
D A healthy condition

Why this is the answer

The presence of pus — a fluid containing white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris — is generally a sign of a bacterial infection. A cosmetologist who sees pus in a lesion on the skin, scalp, or around a nail should not perform the service over the area and should refer the client to a physician, since the area is infected and working on it could spread the infection. Recognizing pus as a sign of infection ties together infection control and scope-of-practice judgment on the exam.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Signs of Infection

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About this topic: Infection Control and Safety

Infection control questions cover the types of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites), how infection spreads in a salon, Standard Precautions, and the salon professional's responsibilities. This is the most heavily tested theory topic in every state. This is one of 11 Scientific Concepts questions on infection control and safety, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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The presence of pus in a lesion is generally a sign of:

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Infection Control and Safety

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