Chapter 5: Infection Control (Standard Foundations)
Pediculosis Capitis
infestation of the hair and scalp with head lice
Inflammation
is a condition in which the tissue of the body reacts to injury, irritation, or infection. Characterized by redness, heat, pain, and/or swelling
Pus
is a fluid containing white blood cells, bacteria, and dead cells, and is the by-product of the infectious process. It's presence is a sign of a bacterial infection.
Systemic Infection
is an infection where the pathogen has spread throughout the body rather than staying in one are or organ. ex. cancer, septic shock
Microorganism
is any organism of microscopic or submicroscopic size
Infectious Disease
is caused by pathogenic (harmful) organisms that enter the body. may or may not be spread from one person to another, depending on the organism and its method of transmission
Local infection
is confined to a particular part of the body and appears as a lesion containing pus. Ex. pimple or abscess
Direct Transmission
is what we most commonly think of in terms of getting sick, as it involves the transmission of pathogens through touching, kissing, coughing, sneezing, and talking a. Parasitic infections and warts are other examples of diseases spread by direct transmission. Cannot live for long periods of time away from a host
Respiratory Droplets
large particles that do not stay suspended in the air long. Wearing a properly fitted mask should protect you from these pathogens. ex. influenza
Indirect Transmission
occurs through contact with an intermediate contaminated object, such as razor, extractor, nipper, or an environmental surface upon which the pathogen resides. Doorknobs, phones, food-preparation surfaces, or your implements at work are all possible vectors of indirect transmission. the pathogen will attempt to infect anyone who touches that surface, making them their new host. a. Illnesses transmitted by this method include salmonella, ringworm, and MRSA
Fungi
single-celled organisms that grow in irregular masses and include molds, mildews, and yeasts; they can produce contagious diseases such as ringworm
Infection
the invasion of body tissues by disease-causing pathogens. a. preventing the spread is possible when you know proper procedures and follow them at all times b. effective infection control also influences the professional image of your establishment
Airborne transmission
the particles are much smaller and dryer, so they hang in the air longer, allowing for the pathogen to spread further.
Transmission
the process by which pathogens move between individuals and objects, this is how we get sick. Is the necessary first step in getting sick.
Sterilization
the process that destroys all microbial life including spores. to be effective typically requires the use of an autoclave, a piece of equipment that incorporates heat and pressure CDC requires that autoclaves be tested monthly to ensure they are properly sterilizing implements. Accepted method is called a spore test
Airborne Transmission and Respiratory Droplet
transmission occurs when a pathogen living in our respiratory tract is expelled through coughing, sneezing, or even talking.
Phenolic Disinfectants
tuberculocidal disinfectants that are a form of formaldehyde, have a very high pH, and can damage the skin and eyes. Phenol can damage plastic and rubber and cause certain metals to rust. Phenolics are known carcinogens and as such should be used only in states that require their use.
Methicllin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
type of infectious staph bacteria that are highly resistant to conventional treatments such as antibiotics. 1. Historically occurred most frequently among persons with weakened immune systems or who had undergone medical procedures. 2. Today has become more common in otherwise health people 3. Initially appears as a skin infection, resulting in pimples, rashes, or boils that can be difficult to cure. Without proper treatment, the infection becomes systemic and can have devastating consequences, eve resulting in death
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
virus that causes HIV disease and acquired immune deficiency syndrome spread from person to person through blood and, less often, through other body fluids, such as semen and vaginal secretions
Contagious Disease
when a disease is capable of being spread from one person to another. Also known as communicable disease 1. Some of the more prevalent contagious diseases that prevent a beauty professional from servicing a client are the common cold, ringworm, conjunctivitis (pinkeye), and viral infections. Most often spread through dirty hands, especially under the fingernails and in the webs between the fingers. 2. Can also be spread by contaminated implements, cuts, infected nails, open sores, pus, mouth and nose discharges, shared drinking cups, telephone receivers, and towels. Uncovered coughing or sneezing and spitting in public also spread germs
Bacteria
(singular: bacterium) are single-celled microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics 1. Some bacteria are harmful, while others are harmless 2. Bacteria can exist almost anywhere: on skin, in water, in the air, in decayed matter, on environmental surfaces, in body secretions, on clothing, or under the free edge of nails. Bacteria are so small they can be seen only with a microscope
Types of Disinfectants
1. Disinfectants are not all the same, some are appropriate for use in the beauty and wellness industry and some are not. 2. Will primarily be using disinfectants that are effectively for cleaning blood and body fluids from nonporous surfaces.
The risk of infection can be greatly reduced with a few simple steps:
1. Eliminate pathogens through proper hand washing, cleaning, and disinfection 2. Clean and disinfect tools and equipment after every service 3. Keep your skin intact to reduce portal of entry for bacteria. Water gloves when working with chemicals, use lotion to reduce skin drying and cracking, and cover open wounds 4. Be prepared to turn away clients who show signs of illness. Remember, you are not licensed to diagnose illness or infection. Refer ill patients to their doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment regimen
There are two types of parasites commonly encountered in the salon, spa, and barbershop environment:
1. Head lice: a type of parasite responsible for contagious diseases and conditions. 2. Scabies: a contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite, which burrows under the skin
Common Antiseptics Used in the Salon, Spa, and Barbershop
1. Hydrogen peroxide has been used in homes and the beauty industry virtually forever. It is generally used at 3% strength and works well as an antiseptic. Should never be used on an open cut as it destroys the cells that begin the healing process in a wound 2. Isopropyl alcohol is effective in cleaning the skin; ti can be very drying and cause irritation of the skin. Alcohol is not a disinfectant for surfaces or implements and should be used only as a cleaner or antiseptic
Proper Use of Disinfectants
1. Implement must be thoroughly cleaned of all visible matter or residue before being placed in disinfectant solution 2. Residue will interfere with the disinfectant and prevent proper disinfection 3. Properly cleaned implements and tools, free from all visible debris, must be completely immersed in disinfectant solution 4. Complete immersion means there is enough liquid in the container to cover all surfaces of the item being disinfected, including the handles, for 10 minutes or for the time recommended by the manufacturer
Beauty professionals should study and have a thorough understanding of infection control because:
1. It is important to know about the pathogens professionals and their clients may be exposed to and their modes of transmission. 2. Understanding and practicing proper infection control within the laws and rules will help safeguard professionals' health, the health of their clients, and their business 3. Practicing safety precautions on a daily basis protects their clients and their license 4. A responsible beauty professional is conscientious about infection control and safety
Disinfection Tips and Safety - Never
1. Let quats, phenols, bleach, or any other disinfectant come in contact with your skin. If you do get disinfectant on your skin, immediately wash the area with liquid soap and warm water. Then rinse and dry the area thoroughly. 2. Place any disinfectant or other product in an unmarked container. All containers should be labeled with, at least, product name, ingredients, date of mixing, and manufacturer's information. 3. Mix chemicals together unless specified in the manufacturer's instructions. (For example, mixing together bleach and ammonia products or bleach and vinegar creates potentially fatal toxic vapors!)
Choosing A Disinfectant
1. Mixing ration (dilution) and contact time (the time as listed on the product label required for the disinfectant to be visibly moist to be effective against pathogens) are very important and can vary widely based on manufacturer and delivery method 2. Most concentrates have a 10-minute contact time, whereas most wipes have a 2-minute contact time. As concentration goes up and contact times go down, disinfectants become more corrosive and damaging to implements 3. If the label does not have the word concentrate on it, the produce is already mixed and must be used directly from the original container and must not be diluted. 4. All EPA-registered disinfectants, even those sprayed on large surfaces, will specify a contact time in their directions for use. Disinfectants must have efficacy claims on the label
Pathogenic bacteria, viruses, or fungi can enter the body through the following routes:
1. Skin: broken or inflamed skin, such as a cut or a scratch, or a bruise (weakened tissue) or a rash, but not through intact skin, which is an effective barrier to infection 2. Mouth: contaminated water, food, fingers, or objects 3. Nose: inhaling infectious dust or droplets from a cough or sneeze 4. Eyes or ears: organisms that reside in water that are commonly transmitted when the person is swimming 5. Genitals: unprotected sex
Explain Infection Control
1. State boards and other regulatory agencies require that infection control measures and safe work practices be applied while serving the public. 2. Since transmission can also occur when using contaminated implements, tools, or equipment, the performance of effective infection control procedures must be top priority in the salon, spa, and barbershop. 3. Safe work practices require that implements, tools, and equipment be used safely and that you be aware of situations that can cause accidents.
Label of any product for disinfection should have the following
1. The list of pathogens against which it is effective; should include HIV, HBV, and MRSA; if Pseudomonas aeruginosa is included, the disinfectant will kill other lesser bacteria 2. EPA registration number 3. The words bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal 4. Mixing and changing instructions
Three Ways to Clean Your Tools and Implements
1. Washing with soap and warm water and then scrubbing them with a clean and properly disinfected nailbrush 2. Using an ultrasonic unit 3. Using a chemical cleaner
At a minimum, disinfectants used must be
1. bactericidal - capable of destroying bacteria 2. virucidal - capable of destroying viruses 3. fungicidal - capable of destroying molds and fungi
The body prevents and controls infections through:
1. healthy, uncompromised skin - the body's first line of defense 2. body secretions, such as perspiration and digestive juices 3. white blood cells that destroy bacteria 4. antitoxins that counteract toxins (various poisonous substances produced by some microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses)
Two Primary Types of Bacteria
1. pathogenic 2. non-pathogenic
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
A 16-category, standard-format document that replaces the previously mandated MSDS or PSDS that assess and communicates the potential hazards associated with products
Disinfecting
A chemical process for use with NONPOROUS ITEMS that uses specific products to destroy harmful organisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi (EXCEPT BACTERIA SPORES) on implements and environmental surfaces. Ex of nonporous: scissors, tweezers
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
AKA QUATS: products made of quaternary ammonium cations and are designed for disinfection of nonporous surfaces; they are appropriate for use in noncritical (noninvasive) environments and are effective against most pathogens of concern in the salon, spa, or barbershop environment. 1. The most advanced type of these formulations is called multiple quats. Multiple quats contain sophisticated blends of quats that work together to significantly increase the effectiveness of these disinfectants. 2. these solutions usually disinfect implements in 10 minutes. as with all disinfectants, leaving tools in these solutions for prolonged periods can cause dulling or damage
Tinea Barbae
AKA barber's itch; a superficial fungal infection that commonly affects the skin; it is primarily limited to the bearded areas of the face and neck or around the scalp. May have deep inflamed or noninflamed patches of skin
Multiuse
AKA reusable; items that can be cleaned, disinfected, and used on more than on person, even if the item is accidentally exposed to blood or body fluid
Modes of Transmission
All pathogens are different in terms of where they reside and how they infect humans. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi have different ways of moving from one person to another or from an object to a person
Disinfectants
Are chemical products that destroy most bacteria (excluding spores), fungi, and viruses on surfaces. 1. Are not listed as "hospital grade" but instead are listed based on the pathogens they are effective against a. Products on list D meet the criteria of most states for hospital disinfectants b. Products on list E meet the criteria of a tuberculocidal in those states where that is required
Rules and regulations
Are more specific than laws. The regulatory agency or the state board writes the rules and determines how the law must be applied. Rules establish specific standards of conduct and can be changed or updated frequently.
Pathogenic
Bacteria are harmful microorganisms that can cause disease or infection in humans when they invade the body.
Prevention of Viruses
Cannot cure viruses, can often prevent contracting and spreading them through the use of vaccinations. Hand washing and disinfection are your best defense against becoming sick
Infectious
Caused by or capable of being transmitted by infection
The best method of prevention
Conscientiously using infection control precautions, including Standard precautions, cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization
Diagnosis
Determination of the nature of a disease from its symptoms and/or diagnostic tests. Federal regulations prohibit salon professionals from performing a diagnosis
Parasitic Disease
Disease caused by parasites, such as lice and mites.
Pathogenic Disease
Disease produced by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites
Bloodborne Pathogens
Disease-causing microorganisms that are carried in the body by blood or body fluids, such as hepatitis and HIV Spread is possible whenever the skin is broken
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
HPV. A virus that can infect the bottom of the foot and resembles small black dots, usually in clustered groups; also a cutaneous viral infection commonly contracted through sexual transmission and exhibited by genital warts. Highly contagious and can be transmitted both directly and indirectly. Can also be spread from person to person indirectly through items like a wax pot.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
HSV. An inflammatory disease of the skin caused by a viral infection and characterized by small vesicles in clusters. Highly contagious and can be transmitted both directly and indirectly. Can also be spread from person to person indirectly through items like a wax pot
Disinfecting Electrical Tools and Equipment
Hair clippers and other types of electrical equipment have contact points that cannot be completely immersed in liquid. These items should be cleaned and disinfected using an EPA-registered disinfectant designed for use on these devices
Non-pathogenic
Harmless organisms that may perform useful functions Ex: organisms used to make yogurt, cheese, and some medicines In the human body, nonpathogenic bacteria help the body bread down food, protect against infection, and stimulate the immune system
Bleach
Household bleach, 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite, an effective disinfectant and has been used extensively in salons, spas, and barbershops. Bleach used must be EPA registered as a disinfectant. Chlorine bleach is the only bleach that disinfectants. Bleach is corrosive and damage metals and plastics as well as cause skin irritation and eye damage. A fresh bleach solution should be mixed every 24 hours or when the solution has been contaminated. After mixing the bleach solution, date the container to ensure that the solution is not saved from one day to the next disposed of daily like other disinfectants 1. All disinfectants, including bleach, are inactivated (made less effective) in the presence of many substances, including oils, lotions, creams, hair, and skin. 2. To be effective, the bleach must have an EPA registration number and contain at least 5 percent sodium hypochlorite and be diluted properly to a 10 percent solution - nine parts water to one part bleach
Occupational Disease
Illness resulting from conditions associated with employment, such as prolonged and repeated overexposure to certain products or ingredients
Sanitizing
Is a chemical process of reducing the number of disease-causing germs on cleaned surfaces to a safe level. Infection control professionals consider sanitation to be a layperson's term or a product marketing term, preferring cleaning to describe the step before disinfecting
Cleaning
Is a mechanical process using soap and water or detergent and water to remove all visible dirt, debris, and many disease-causing germs. Also removes invisible debris that interferes with disinfection
Disinfecting Containers
Jars or containers used to disinfect implements were often incorrectly called "wet sanitizers." Disinfectant containers contain disinfectant for disinfecting purposes, not for cleaning. The container you choose must be large enough to contain all items to be disinfected and covered, but not airtight
Porous
Made or constructed of a material that has pores or openings. Porous items are absorbent.
Incubation and Containment
Many viruses can remain dormant for months to years following exposure, but most produce signs of illness within 10 to 14 days.
Germs
Nonscientific synonym for disease-producing organisms
Parasites
Organisms that grow, feed, and shelter on or inside another organism (referred to as the host), while contributing nothing to the survival of that organisms. 1. Must have a host to survive 2. Can live on or inside of humans and animals 3. Can be found in food, on plants and trees, and in water 4. Humans can acquire internal by eating fish or meat that has not been properly cooked 5. External that affect humans by way of the skin include ticks, lice, fleas, and mites 6. Should only be treated by a doctor 7. Contaminated countertops, tools, and equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and then disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant for the time recommended by the manufacturer or with bleach solution for 10 minutes
Hand Washing
Properly washing your hands is one of the most important actions you can take to prevent spreading germs from one person to another 1. Antibacterial Soaps: antibacterial and antimicrobial soaps have been under the scrutiny of FDA since 2014. 2016 many of the chemicals used in these soaps were banned 2. True benefit of hand washing comes from the friction created by the soap bubbles that works to "pull" pathogens off the skin surface.
Staphylococci
Pus-forming bacteria that grow in clusters like a bunch of grapes. They cause abscesses, pustules, and boils. 1. most common bacteria that affect humans and are routinely found in our environment, including on our bodies 2. Can be picked up on doorknobs, countertops, and other surfaces; more frequently spread through skin-to-skin contact (such as shaking hands), pedicure bowls, or the use of unclean tools or implements, and can be very dangerous 3. responsible for food poisoning and a wide range of diseases, including toxic shock syndrome and some flesh-eating diseases.
Infection Control
Refers to the methods used to eliminate or reduce the transmission of infectious organisms from one individual to another
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Registers all types of disinfectants sold and used in the United States. A. It is against federal law to use any disinfecting product in a way contrary to the use indicated on its label B. Before manufacturers can sell a product for disinfecting surfaces, tools, implements, or equipment, they must obtain an EPA registration number (indicated on a product label by "EPA Reg. No." near the manufacturer's name) that certifies that the disinfectant, when used correctly, will be effective against the pathogens listed on the label. C. Follow the label instructions for mixing, contact time, and the type of surface the disinfecting product can be used on
State Agencies
Regulate licensing, enforcement, and your conduct when you are on the job
Federal Agencies
Set guidelines for the manufacture, sale, and use of equipment and chemical ingredients. These guidelines also monitor safety in the workplace and place limits on the types of services you can perform in a salon, spa, or barbershop.
Keep a Logbook
Should always follow manufacturers' recommended schedules for cleaning and disinfecting tools and implements, disinfecting work surfaces, scheduling regular service visits for equipment, and replacing parts when needed.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Nonporous, Reusable Items
State rules require that all multiuse tools and implements be cleaned and disinfected before every service. Mix all disinfectants according to the manufacturer's directions, always adding the disinfectant to the water, not the water to the disinfectant
Employ the Principles of Prevention
Step 1: Cleaning - the first step in infection control. Remove all visible and surface dirt and debris from tools, implements, and equipment by washing them with liquid soap or detergent and warm water, or a chemical cleaner, and using a clean and disinfected brush to scrub any grooved or hinged portions of the item. Surface must be properly cleaned before it can be properly disinfected Step 2: Disinfecting - the second of infection control. The process that eliminates most, but not necessarily all, microorganisms on nonporous surfaces. Not effective against bacterial spores. Extremely effective in controlling microorganisms on surfaces such as shears, clippers, and other multiuse tools and equipment. A disinfectant used must carry an EPA registration number, and the label should clearly state the specific organisms the solution is effective against when used according to the manufacturer's product instructions. Are products that destroy most bacteria (not including spores), fungi, and viruses on surfaces. Not for use on human skin, hair, or nails
Efficacy
The ability of a product to produce the intended effect; on a disinfectant label, it indicates specific pathogens destroyed or disabled when used properly. The effectiveness with which a disinfecting solution kills organisms when used according to the label instructions
Contamination
The presence, or the reasonably anticipated presence, of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item's surface, or visible debris or residues such as dust, hair, and skin
Sterilizing
The process that destroys all microbial life, INCLUDING SPORES, generally with the use of an autoclave. Ex of Porous: Pumice stone
Decontamination
The removal of blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item's surface and the removal of visible debris or residues such as dust, hair, and skin
Toxins
Various poisonous substances produced by some microorganisms (bacteria and viruses).
Bacteria multiply best in places that are?
Warm, dark, damp, or dirty places
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Was created as part of the U.S. Department of Labor to regulate and enforce safety and health standards to protect employees in the workplace. Address issues relating to the handling, mixing, storing, and disposing of products; general safety in the workplace; and your right to know about any potentially hazardous ingredients contained in the products and how to avoid these hazards. Requiring that chemical manufacturers and importers assess and communicate the potential hazards associated with their products through a Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
a disease that breaks down the body's immune system. cause by human immunodeficiency virus
Tinea Capitis
a fungal infection of the scalp characterized by red papules, or spots, at the opening of the hair follicles
Ringworm
a fungal infection of the skin that appears in circular lesions, is another fungus that may contraindicate a beauty service
Mycobacterium
a large family of bacteria that is often found in soil and water
Virus
a submicroscopic particle that infects and resides in the cells of a biological organism. Capable of replication only through taking over the host cell's reproductive function.
Mildew
a type of fungus that affects plants or grows or inanimate objects but does not cause human infections in the spa, salon, or barbershop
Nonporous
an item that is made of material that has no pores or opening and cannot absorb liquids
Disease
any abnormal condition of all or part of the body, its systems, or its organs that makes body incapable of carrying on normal functions
Antiseptics
are chemical germicides formulated for use on skin and are registered and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. generally contain a high volume of alcohol and are intended to reduce the numbers and slow the growth of microbes on the skin. Never use to disinfect instruments or other surfaces. Only use hand sanitizers as secondary option to hand washing
Tuberculocidal disinfectants
are proven to kill the bacterium that cause tuberculosis, in addition to other pathogens destroyed through the use of hospital disinfectants 1. Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacterium that is transmitted through coughing or sneezing. Passed through inhalation only and is not transmitted by the hands or picked up on surfaces
Laws
are written by both federal and state legislatures to determine the scope of practice (what each license allows the holder to do) and establish guidelines for regulatory agencies to make rules. Laws are also called statues.
Bacterial spores
bacteria capable of producing a protective coating that allows them to withstand very harsh environments and to shed the coating when conditions become more favorable to them.
Hepatitis
bloodborne virus that causes disease and can damage the liver. Can be present in all body fluids of those who are infected. Can live on a surface outside the body for long periods of time
Biofilms
colonies of microorganisms that adhere to environmental surfaces, as well as the human body. They secret a sticky hard-to-penetrate, protective coating that cements them together. Grows into a complex structure, with many kinds of microbes 1. Dental plaque is an example of a visible human ones 2. Algae colonies on ponds and slime in drains are examples of visible environmental ones 3. Because they are hard to detect, their presence and effects seem to be underestimated. One of the most significant scientific discoveries of the past few decades
State Regulatory Agencies
exist to protect beauty professionals' and their customers' health and safety during services. 1. Include licensing agencies, state boards, commissions, and health departments 2. Enforcement of the rules through inspections and investigations of consumer complaints is also part of an agency's responsibility. 3. Penalties vary and include warnings, fines, probation, and suspension or revocation of licenses
Difference between viruses and bacteria
1. A virus can live and reproduce only by taking over other cells and becoming part of them, which bacteria can live and reproduce on their own 2.Bacterial infections can usually be treated with specific antibiotics, viral infections cannot; viruses are hard to kill without harming the host cells in the process
Five types of potentially harmful organisms
1. Bacteria 2. Viruses 3. Fungi 4. Parasites 5. Biofilms
Common Types of Transmission
1. Direct 2. Indirect (surface) 3. Airborne and Respiratory Droplet
Disinfectant Tips and Safety
Disinfectants are poisonous and can cause serious skin and eye damage. Some disinfectants appear clear while others, especially phenolic disinfectants, are a little cloudy Always: 1. Keep the SDS on hand for the disinfectant (s) you use 2. Wear gloves and safety glasses 3. Avoid skin and eye contact 4. Add disinfectant to water when diluting (rather than adding water to a disinfectant) to prevent foaming, which can result in an incorrect mixing ratio 5. Use tongs, gloves, or a draining basket to remove implements from disinfectants 6. Keep disinfectants out of reach of children 7. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing, using, and disposing of disinfectants 8. Use disinfectants only on clean, hard, nonporous surfaces 9. Keep an item submerged in the disinfectant for 10 minutes unless the product label specifies differently 10. Immerse the entire implement in disinfectant if the product label call for "complete immersion." 11. To disinfect large surfaces, such as countertops, carefully apply the disinfectant to the clean surface or use a disinfectant spray and allow it to remain moist for 10 minutes, unless state regulations say differently. 12. Strictly follow the manufacturer's directions for when to replace the disinfectant solution in order to ensure the healthiest conditions for you and your client. Replace the disinfectant solution every day - more often if the solution becomes soiled or contaminated