Infection Control (Chp. 5)

Laws

(statutes) 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.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (adult clients)

-Assist clients (especially the elderly) in and out of chairs and onto and off treatment tables. -Hold doors open for clients. -Assist clients in walking whenever necessary. -Always support the back of the chair, and thus the client, when reclining or raising a chair back. Support the client's head whenever appropriate at the shampoo bowl or during other neck-straining procedures.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (children)

-Be aware of children's inquisitive nature and the speed with which they can move to help prevent accidents from happening. -Post notices in the reception area advising patrons that children are not to be left unattended. -Do not allow children to play, climb, or spin on hydraulic chairs. -Do not allow children to wander freely with access to workstations, storage areas, and so forth. -Never trust a young child to hold their head or body still while you are wielding tools. Instead, hold the child gently but firmly with one hand while working with the other.

Bleach solution

-Bleach mixed with water in a 10% concentration; effective at killing a variety of pathogens. -24-hour limit -- or when the solution has been contaminated -avoid light and heat

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (attire)

-Clothing should be comfortable and professional in appearance. -Keep long hair pulled back or short enough to avoid entanglements. -Necklaces should be of an appropriate length so as not to get caught on equipment or dangle in a client's face at the shampoo bowl or during a shave. Rings should not be worn on the index and middle fingers as they might interfere with accuracy. Watches should be waterproof and shock absorbent. -Shoes should have nonskid rubber soles with good support.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (high-risk clients)

-Customers with impaired immune systems are at very high risk of infection should they encounter pathogens, although they may not tell you that they are. -Diabetic customers have immune systems that do not work effectively and have impaired healing. A simple nick from a tool that was not properly disinfected may have devastating effects. While many people will tell you they have diabetes if they do, some type 2 diabetics can be diabetic for years prior to being diagnosed, which means that even if you ask, they may say "no" because they have not yet been diagnosed. -Lumpectomy/mastectomy patients have had surgical treatment for breast cancer. With the lymph nodes of their arm removed, any infectious process in that arm could lead to a permanent condition called lymphedema. It is extremely important to these clients that properly disinfected implements be used, particularly in a nail service, to reduce the risk of this very uncomfortable condition. -Clients on medication for conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia are likely to have suppressed immune systems, making them particularly susceptible to infection. -Clients who are pregnant may be particularly sensitive to harsh smells; their skin may also have unusual reactions to chemicals. Each client must decide for themselves what is safe for their baby during pregnancy; however, allowing a client to read the labels of products prior to using them may help them to decide.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (fire extinguishers)

-Fire extinguishers should be placed where they are readily accessible. -All employees should be instructed in fire extinguisher use. -It is a law that fire extinguishers be checked periodically.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (equipment and fixtures)

-Keep all chairs, headrests, tables, heat lamps, and lighting fixtures in good working order. Tighten screws and bolts, grease or oil hinges, and service equipment mechanisms as needed. -Dust and clean regularly to avoid dust buildup and to maintain clean conditions. -Maintain lighting fixtures. Change bulbs when necessary to keep workstations well lit.

Disinfectant Tips (ALWAYS):

-Keep the SDS on hand for the disinfectant(s) you use. -Wear gloves and safety glasses. -Avoid skin and eye contact. -Add disinfectant to water when diluting to prevent foaming. -Use tongs, gloves, or a draining basket to remove implements from disinfectants. -Keep disinfectants out of reach of children. -Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing, use, and disposal. -Use disinfectants only on clean, hard, nonporous surfaces. -Keep an item submerged in disinfectant for 10 minutes or specified. -Immerse the entire implement in disinfectant if the product calls for "complete immersion." -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. -Replace disinfectant solution every day—more often if soiled or contaminated.

Disinfectant Tips (NEVER):

-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. -Place any disinfectant or other product in an unmarked container. All containers should be labeled with, at the least, product name, ingredients, date of mixing, and manufacturer's information. -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!)

Your Professional Responsibility

-Never take shortcuts for cleaning and disinfecting. You cannot afford to skip steps or save money when it comes to safety. -It is your professional and legal responsibility to follow state and federal laws and rules. -Keep your license current and notify the licensing agency if you move or change your name. -Check your state's website monthly for any change or update to the rules and regulations. -Be aware of your environment so that you can identify and eliminate potential hazards to make your salon, spa, or barbershop safer for you and your clients. -Be prepared for emergencies. Every salon, spa, and barbershop should have employee and clientele emergency information available. -An emergency phone number checklist should include the contact numbers for fire, police, poison control, and medical rescue departments; the nearest hospital emergency room; and taxis. -Utility service companies, such as electricity, water, heat, air-conditioning, and landlord or custodial numbers are also helpful in an emergency or if something breaks down in the shop. Update this information on an annual basis and you will always be prepared. -Realize that behavior that stems from a knowledgeable and caring manner is what separates a true professional from a nonprofessional.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (ventilation)

-Proper ventilation and air circulation are extremely important in today's salons, spas, and barbershops. -Particles from products such as hair sprays and disinfectants can be inhaled and may cause allergic reactions or other health problems. -Heating and air-conditioning vents should be located to perform their optimum functions without interfering with client services. -Vents should be vacuumed or cleaned periodically to prevent any buildup of hair that might impede ventilation. -Fumes from chemical applications and nail care products require sophisticated filtration units that cleanse and detoxify the air. Once installed, air filters should be changed or cleaned regularly.

Demonstrating safe work practices & safety precautions (tools and appliances)

-Smaller tools may be placed in countertop receptacles designed for that purpose. Larger equipment may be mounted under the cabinet, attached to a wall, or set on a shelf. -Disinfecting jars should be set back toward a wall or partition so as not to interfere with other tools. -If a tool or implement is dropped on the floor during a service, it must be replaced with a disinfected tool or you must stop the service and properly disinfect the tool. -All tools and implements should be in good working condition. -Electrical cords can often threaten to become a safety hazard in a busy shop. A well-planned workstation with sufficient and conveniently placed outlets can also help minimize "tangled cord syndrome." -Never place any tool or implement in your mouth or pocket.

Demonstrating safe work practices & safety precautions (water)

-Wipe up any water spills or leaks immediately. -Water heaters should not be set at higher than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. -Always test water and steam towel temperature on the inside of your wrist before applying to a client's hair or scalp.

types of disinfectants

-nonporous/porous -QUATS (Quaternary ammonium compounds) -tuberculocidal disinfectants -phenolic disinfectants

Proper infection control requires these two steps:

1. cleaning 2. disinfecting with an appropriate EPA-registered disinfectant

SDS (Safety Data Sheet)

16-category, standard-format document required by OSHA for all chemical products.

Bleach

5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite, is an effective disinfectant and has been used extensively in salons, spas, and barbershops. This is the only thing that disinfects, so it is wise to always look for disinfection instructions on the label to ensure that the (Blank) you use is actually disinfecting. This is corrosive and can damage metals and plastics as well as cause skin irritation and eye damage.

proper use of disinfectants

All implements must be thoroughly cleaned of all visible matter or residue before soaking in disinfectant. Use caution when using a disinfectant so that it does not get on skin. - clean and rinse first - complete immersion - contact time

virucidal

Capable of destroying viruses

What is the difference between cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing?

Cleaning is the mechanical process of removing all visible dirt and debris by washing with soap and water or detergent and water. Disinfecting is the chemical process that uses specific products to destroy harmful organisms (except bacterial spores) on environmental surfaces. Sterilizing is the process that completely destroys all microbial life, including spores.

diagnosis

Determination of the nature of a disease from its symptoms and/or diagnostic tests. Federal regulations prohibit salon professionals from performing a diagnosis.

Parasite disease

Disease caused by parasites such as lice and mites.

Pathogenic disease

Disease produced by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Demonstrating safe work practices and safety precautions (exit)

Exits should be well marked and identifiable. Employees should know where exits are located and how to evacuate the building quickly in case of fire or other emergencies.

What are the primary purposes of regulatory agencies?

Federal agencies regulate the beauty and wellness professions by setting guidelines for the manufacture, sale, and use of equipment and chemical ingredients and for safety in the workplace. State agencies regulate licensing and enforcement; protect the health, safety, and welfare of the consumer; and guide your conduct when you are working in a salon, spa, or barbershop.

occupational disease

Illnesses resulting from conditions associated with employment, such as prolonged and repeated overexposure to certain products or ingredients.

Why is it of the utmost importance to practice strict infection control protocols with every client?

It is your professional and legal responsibility to follow state and federal laws and rules. Your livelihood and reputation depend upon it. Standard Precautions state that all bodily fluids be treated as potentially infectious. It is impossible to know which of your clients are at higher risk of infection than others, because they may not tell you or even know themselves. Thus, you must assume all clients are at risk of suffering dire consequences.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Many chemicals used in the salon, spa, or barbershop bear labels that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, when working with their products. However, some equipment, such as gloves, offer protection from exposure to pathogens and should be worn whenever practical.

germs

Nonscientific synonym for disease-producing organisms.

methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Some types of infectious staph bacteria are highly resistant to conventional treatments such as antibiotics. Without proper treatment, the infection becomes systemic and can have devastating consequences, even resulting in death.

tinea barbae

The most frequently encountered fungal infection resulting from hair services. Also known as barbers itch May cause deep, inflamed or noninflamed patches of skin on the face or nape of the neck

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.

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).

Hepatitis

a bloodborne virus that causes disease and can damage the liver

pediculosis capitis

a condition caused by the an infestation of head lice

scabies

a contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite, which burrows under the skin.

tinea capitis

a fungal infection of the scalp characterized by red papules, or spots, at the opening of 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. In recent years, it has been linked to disfiguring infections associated particularly with pedicure bowls.

Virus

a submicroscopic particle that infects and resides in the cells of a biological organism.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

addresses issues relating to the handling, mixing, storing, and disposing products; general safety in the workplace; and your right to know about hazardous ingredients contained in the products and how to avoid these hazards.

Staphylococci

among the most common bacteria that affect humans and are routinely found in our environment.

systemic infection

an infection where the pathogen has spread throughout the body rather than staying in one area or organ.

Rules

and regulations are more specific than laws. Rules apply laws by establishing specific standards of conduct and can be changed or updated frequently. It is the beauty professional's responsibility to be aware of any changes to the rules and regulations and to comply with them. Ignorance of the law is not an acceptable reason or excuse for noncompliance

mildew

another fungus, affects plants or grows on inanimate objects but does not cause human infections in the salon, spa, or barbershop.

head lice

are a type of parasite responsible for contagious diseases and conditions. One condition caused by an infestation of head lice is called pediculosis capitis.

Quats (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds)

are disinfectants that are very effective when used properly on nonporous surfaces. The most advanced type of these formulations is called multi quats

Bacteria

are single-celled microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics

Fungi

are single-celled organisms that grow in irregular masses that include molds, mildews, and yeasts.

pathogenic bacteria

bacteria are harmful microorganisms that can cause disease or infection in humans when they invade the body.

List the 5 types of organisms that are important to a beauty professional

bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and biofilms.

When it comes to preventing the spread of infectious disease, beauty professionals must understand and be prepared to deal with five types of potentially harmful organisms:

bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, biofilms

At a minimum, disinfectants used in salons, spas, and barbershops must be:

bactericidal, fungicidal, virucidal

bactericidal

capable of destroying bacteria

fungicidal

capable of destroying molds and fungi

infectious disease

caused by pathogenic (harmful) organisms that enter the body. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are designed to prevent the spread of infection and disease.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)

causes AIDS - virus kills T cells, weakening the immune system and making the individual more prone to other illnesses

antiseptics

chemical germicides formulated for use on skin and are registered and regulated by the FDA. generally contain a high volume of alcohol and are intended to reduce the numbers and slow the growth of microbes on the skin. examples of antiseptics include hydrogen peroxide and Isopropyl alcohol

biofilms

colonies of microorganisms that adhere to environmental surfaces, as well as the human body. They secrete a sticky, hard-to-penetrate, protective coating that cements them together. They grow into a complex structure with many kinds of microbes.

What are the four modes of pathogen transmission?

direct, indirect, airborne, and respiratory droplet.

Bloodborne pathogens

disease-causing microorganisms that are carried in the body by blood or body fluids. In the salon, spa, and barbershop, the spread of bloodborne pathogens is possible whenever the skin is broken

Standard Precautions (SP)

guidelines published by the CDC that require the employer and employee to assume that any human blood and body fluids are potentially infectious. Because it may not be possible to identify clients with infectious diseases, strict infection control practices should be used with all clients

What are Standard Precautions?

guidelines published by the CDC that require the employer and the employee to assume that all human blood and body fluids are infectious and carry bloodborne pathogens. Precautions include hand washing, wearing gloves, and proper handling and disposal of sharp instruments and items that have been contaminated by blood or other body fluids. It is important that specific procedures be followed if blood or body fluid is present.

nonpathogenic bacteria

harmless organisms that may perform useful functions. They are safe to come in contact with since they do not cause disease or harm

bacterial infections

inflammation, pus, local infection, systemic infection

inflammation

is a condition in which the tissue of the body reacts to injury, irritation, or infection. Inflammation is 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. The presence of pus is a sign of a bacterial infection.

Microorganism

is any organism of microscopic or submicroscopic size.

isopropyl alcohol

is effective in cleaning the skin. This is not a disinfectant for surfaces or implements and should be used only as a cleaner or antiseptic.

porous (disinfectants)

material that has holes or openings and is absorbent. should not use disinfectants on this kind of surface because it will get stuck in the openings no matter how hard you try to clean it out.

Two primary types of bacteria

nonpathogenic and pathogenic

Indirect Transmission

occurs through contact with an intermediate contaminated object, such as a razor, extractor, nipper, or an environmental surface upon which the pathogen resides. Examples: salmonella, ringworm, and MRSA.

parasites

organisms that grow, feed, and shelter on or inside another organism (referred to as a host), while contributing nothing to the survival of that organism. external examples include ticks, fleas, mites, and lice.

Phenolic disinfectants

powerful disinfectants; but just because these disinfectants are effective does not mean that you should automatically reach for them. They have been used reliably over the years to disinfect tools; however, they do have significant drawbacks. Most states have removed phenolic disinfectants from their requirements, due to the risks outweighing the benefits, and manufacturers are ceasing their production.

Tuberculocidal disinfectants

proven to kill the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, in addition to other pathogens destroyed through the use of hospital disinfectants.

Airborne Transmission and Respiratory Droplet

similar in that transmission occurs when a pathogen living in our respiratory tract is expelled through coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Airborne transmission particles are smaller and hang in the air longer; respiratory droplets can be more effectively controlled by simply wearing a mask. Example: influenza.

Gloves

specialized clothing or equipment worn by an employee for protection against a hazard.

local infection

such as a pimple or abscess, is confined to a particular part of the body and appears as a lesion containing pus.

Infection

the invasion of body tissues by disease-causing pathogens.

Transmission

the process by which pathogens move between individuals and objects - this is the first step in how we get sick.

asymptomatic

they [the client] show no symptoms or signs of infection.

hydrogen peroxide

this is generally used at 3 percent strength and works well as an antiseptic.

nonpourous (disinfectants)

this is made of a material that has no pores or openings and that cannot absorb liquids. you will primarily be using disinfectants that are effective for cleaning blood and body fluids from this kind of surface

Direct Transmission

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. Examples: Parasitic infections and warts.

Human papilloma virus (HPV) and Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

wo highly contagious viruses that can be transmitted both directly and indirectly. Both of these viruses can be spread through skin-to-skin contact and are often thought of as sexually transmitted diseases. However, both viruses can also be spread from person to person indirectly through items like a wax pot.

Chelating Soaps

work to break down stubborn films and remove the residue of products such as scrubs, salts, and masks. The (blank) agents in these soaps work in all types of water, are low-sudsing, and are specially formulated to work in areas with hard tap water. Hard tap water reduces the effectiveness of cleaners and disinfectants. If your area has hard water, ask your local distributor for soaps that are effective in hard water. This information will be stated on the product's label.

What could happen if you hurt a client or make the mill?

you could lose your license or ruin your salon, spa, or barbershop's reputation.