If a client shows signs of a skin infection during a service, what should you do?

If a client shows signs of a skin infection during a service, what should you do?

• A. Continue with the service with gloves
• B. Apply antiseptic and continue
• C. Do not perform the service and refer the client to a physician
• D. Reschedule for later with a new appointment

Answer: (C)

When you notice signs of a skin infection, protecting clients and yourself means stopping the service and guiding the client to medical care. Skin infections can be contagious and spread through your hands, surfaces, and tools, so continuing or masking the issue with gloves or antiseptic isn’t safe. The correct course is to do no further treatment and refer the client to a physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Rescheduling later doesn’t address the risk to others, and simply applying antiseptic while continuing could worsen spread. After stopping, ensure you and your workstation are properly cleaned and wait for medical clearance before resuming any service.

When you notice signs of a skin infection, protecting clients and yourself means stopping the service and guiding the client to medical care. Skin infections can be contagious and spread through your hands, surfaces, and tools, so continuing or masking the issue with gloves or antiseptic isn’t safe. The correct course is to do no further treatment and refer the client to a physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Rescheduling later doesn’t address the risk to others, and simply applying antiseptic while continuing could worsen spread. After stopping, ensure you and your workstation are properly cleaned and wait for medical clearance before resuming any service.