The best response when uncertain whether a skin or nail service is safe for a client is to:

When uncertain whether a skin or nail service is safe — for example, because of a possible infection, an unusual lesion, a medication, or a medical condition — the best response is to pause and, if there is a possible contraindication, decline the service or refer the client to a physician rather than risk harm. This cautious 'when in doubt, don't' approach protects the client and the professional and respects scope of practice. Defaulting to caution with possible contraindications is a consistent safety theme the exam rewards.