NIC National Cosmetology Theory Exam — Practice Exam
Infection control: practice questions
Our NIC Cosmetology Theory bank has 45 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
What is a biofilm?
- A protective coating applied to clean implements after they are disinfected
- A colony of microorganisms that sticks to surfaces and resists cleaning
- The natural oil on hair
- A film left by hair spray
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B. A colony of microorganisms that sticks to surfaces and resists cleaning — Biofilms in foot spa pipes are why rules require scrubbing and circulating disinfectant.
Question 2
Which level of infection control destroys all microbial life, including bacterial spores?
- Disinfection
- Sanitation (cleaning)
- Sterilization
- Antisepsis with alcohol-based hand rub
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C. Sterilization — Sterilization (autoclave or dry heat) kills all forms of microbial life, including spores; disinfection does not kill spores.
Question 3
Where should a used disposable razor blade go?
- A covered trash can with the hair clippings
- A puncture-resistant sharps container
- The paper towel waste bin, wrapped in tissue
- A drawer until the end of the day
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B. A puncture-resistant sharps container — Sharps go in a closable, puncture-resistant container.
Question 4
Where should disinfected implements be stored?
- In a pouch on the stylist's belt for quick access during services
- Uncovered on the station so they can air dry between clients
- In the drawer with used tools
- In a clean, covered container labeled as clean or disinfected
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D. In a clean, covered container labeled as clean or disinfected — Clean tools must be kept apart from soiled ones in a clean, covered place.
Question 5
Should a professional serve a client whose scalp shows open sores or signs of infection?
- Yes, if the stylist wears gloves
- Yes, if the service is a haircut only
- Yes, but use extra disinfectant on the tools
- No; refer the client to a physician
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D. No; refer the client to a physician — Services must not be done on inflamed, broken or infected skin.