What steps should you take if a client has a suspected open wound or active skin infection?

• A. Proceed with service; sanitize afterward
• B. Cancel appointment and discard tools
• C. Apply antiseptic and continue
• D. Do not perform service; advise medical care; reschedule after healing; sanitize station and tools

Answer: (D)

When there’s a suspected open wound or active skin infection, safety and infection control must come first. Do not proceed with the service. Stop immediately and advise the client to seek medical care if needed. You should reschedule the appointment for a time after healing, and thoroughly sanitize the station and all tools to prevent any risk of spreading infection to other clients or yourself.

This approach protects the client from potential worsening or spread of infection and keeps the work environment safe. It also reflects professional hygiene practices: wounds and infections can harbor bacteria, and continuing work could transfer contaminants to nails, tools, or the workspace. Sanitizing and disinfecting between clients is essential, especially when a health issue like this is present.

Choosing to proceed with treatment, or to apply antiseptics and continue, would not address the risk to the client or others and could worsen the condition or spread infection. Discarding tools entirely is unnecessary if proper sanitation and infection-control procedures are followed, but the priority remains not performing the service until healing and ensuring the area is clean and safe.