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Quizzes > Health & Medicine

Chapter 5 Infection Control: Principles and Practices Quiz

Quick Chapter 5 Infection Control test. Instant results to guide your study.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Colin ClarkeUpdated Aug 26, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for Chapter 5 Infection Control quiz on golden yellow background

This quiz helps you review Chapter 5 infection control principles and practice safe disinfection steps. Answer short questions on sanitation levels, tool care, and client safety to find what to study next. For more practice, try our infection control practice test, hand hygiene quiz, and infection control competency test.

What is the primary goal of disinfection in a salon environment?
To remove visible debris only
To kill or inactivate most pathogenic organisms
To lubricate tools for easier handling
To add fragrance to implements
Disinfection aims to kill or inactivate most disease-causing microorganisms on nonliving surfaces. While it doesn’t sterilize completely, it greatly reduces pathogens to safe levels. This step is essential after cleaning, before tools are used again.
Which agency regulates the efficacy claims on disinfectant labels in the United States?
OSHA
FDA
EPA
CDC
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registers and regulates disinfectants claiming to kill pathogens on environmental surfaces. Labels must include an EPA registration number and kill claims substantiated by testing. Salon professionals should always verify EPA-approved status.
Which step should be performed first when cleaning an implement before disinfection?
Removal of visible debris
Rinsing under water
Wiping with alcohol
Immersion in disinfectant
Visible debris must be removed before disinfection because organic matter can shield microbes from the disinfectant. Proper cleaning ensures the disinfectant contacts all surfaces. This is typically done with soap and water or an enzymatic cleaner.
True or False: Disinfectants are effective in the presence of blood and saliva.
False
True
Disinfectants are often inactivated by organic matter such as blood and saliva. Implements must be precleaned to remove these materials before disinfection. If not, the disinfectant cannot reach and kill pathogens effectively.
Which of the following is NOT a form of bacteria?
Virions
Cocci
Bacilli
Spirilla
Virions are complete virus particles, not bacteria. Bacteria come in three main shapes: cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral). Understanding these shapes aids in identifying and treating infections.
What does 'bioburden' refer to?
The number of live bacteria on a surface before cleaning
The weight of contaminated waste
The potency of a disinfectant
The time needed for sterilization
Bioburden refers to the quantity of organic material such as microbes, blood, and saliva on a surface before cleaning. Measuring bioburden helps determine required cleaning and disinfection protocols. Higher bioburden demands more rigorous cleaning.
Which disinfectant classification is safe for use on porous surfaces like wood?
Hospital-grade disinfectant
Intermediate-level disinfectant
High-level disinfectant
Sterilant
Hospital-grade disinfectants are formulated to be safe and effective on noncritical porous and nonporous surfaces. They kill a broad spectrum of pathogens without damaging surfaces. Always check label instructions for surface compatibility.
True or False: Hand sanitizers can replace handwashing when hands are visibly dirty.
True
False
Hand sanitizers are ineffective on hands that are heavily soiled or greasy. Washing with soap and water is required to remove dirt and organic material. After cleaning, sanitizers can reduce pathogens not removed by washing.
What protective equipment should be worn when handling disinfectants?
Cotton gloves only
No protection needed
Chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection
Latex gloves only
Chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection help prevent skin and eye irritation from harsh disinfectants. Disinfectant labels specify required PPE. Proper PPE reduces risk of accidental exposure and injury.
Why is a wet-contact time important when using a disinfectant?
It prevents the solution from evaporating
Ensures contact long enough to kill pathogens
Keeps the surface shiny
Reduces chemical odor
Wet-contact time ensures the disinfectant remains on the surface long enough to destroy pathogens. If the surface dries too quickly, microbes may survive. Labels specify required contact times. Adhering to contact time is key for efficacy.
Which of the following is an example of an intermediate-level disinfectant?
Quaternary ammonium compounds
Glutaraldehyde
Steam sterilization
Dry heat sterilization
Quaternary ammonium compounds are intermediate-level disinfectants suitable for salon surfaces. They kill most bacteria, fungi, and viruses but not high numbers of bacterial spores. They require proper dilution and contact time.
True or False: Ultraviolet (UV) cabinets replace the need for chemical disinfection.
False
True
UV cabinets can reduce some surface microbes but do not replace cleaning and chemical disinfection. They provide an additional layer of sanitation but must be used after proper cleaning. UV has limited penetration and can’t reach hidden debris.
What is the first action you should take if you accidentally spill disinfectant on your skin?
Continue working
Rinse thoroughly with water
Wipe with a dry cloth
Apply lotion
Immediately rinse the area with plenty of water to dilute and remove the chemical. Prompt washing reduces risk of burns and irritation. After rinsing, report the incident and follow label first-aid instructions.
Which microorganism can form spores and require higher-level disinfection?
Streptococcus
Bacillus anthracis
Escherichia coli
Candida albicans
Bacillus anthracis forms highly resistant spores that survive normal disinfection. High-level disinfectants or sterilization are required to destroy spores. Routine intermediate-level disinfectants are ineffective against spores.
Which disinfectant requires activation by mixing with a separate solution before use?
Chlorine bleach wipes
Phenolic compound concentrate
Ready-to-use quats
Glutaraldehyde-based high-level disinfectant
Phenolic compound concentrates often require dilution with water before use. Incorrect mixing ratios can reduce efficacy or increase toxicity. Always follow manufacturer instructions for activation and dilution.
What is the recommended immersion time for implements in an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant?
30 seconds
10 minutes
2 hours
Immediate removal
Most EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectants require at least a 10-minute immersion to ensure microbial kill. This contact time varies by product and must be followed exactly. Shorter immersion can leave pathogens alive.
Which step in Milady’s infection control protocol focuses on preventing cross-contamination between client and professional?
Sanitation
Disinfection
Barrier protection
Storage
Barrier protection uses gloves, masks, and gowns to prevent transfer of microbes between client and professional. It’s part of standard precautions to reduce infection risk. Barriers are removed and replaced between clients.
Which enzyme cleaner component helps break down proteins in blood and tissue debris?
Lipase
Protease
Amylase
Cellulase
Protease enzymes digest protein-based debris like blood, tissue, and sebum. Using an enzyme precleaning step improves disinfectant efficacy. Protease is essential for cleaning implements with hard-to-remove organic matter.
Which of the following is an example of a high-level disinfectant?
70% isopropyl alcohol
Glutaraldehyde
Quaternary ammonium compounds
Phenolic disinfectant
Glutaraldehyde is classified as a high-level disinfectant capable of killing bacterial spores with extended contact time. It’s used for semi-critical instruments. It requires activation and thorough rinsing after use.
What should you do if a disinfectant label conflicts with state board regulations?
Follow the label
Follow state regulations
Do neither
Use partial compliance
State board regulations for salons may be stricter than EPA label instructions, and you must follow the more stringent requirement. Compliance with local laws ensures safety and avoids penalties. Always verify both label and state guidelines.
Why is it important to change disinfectant solution daily or when visibly contaminated?
To keep solution fragrant
To maintain efficacy against pathogens
To reduce chemical concentration
To avoid rusting tools
Disinfectant solutions become diluted or contaminated over time, reducing their capacity to kill pathogens. Daily changes ensure correct concentration and effectiveness. Visible debris indicates replacement is needed immediately.
Which category of instruments requires sterilization rather than disinfection?
Noncritical instruments
Semi-critical instruments
Critical instruments
Disposable implements
Critical instruments enter sterile tissue or the vascular system and must be sterilized to destroy all microbes and spores. Examples include lancets and surgical scalpels. Disinfection alone is insufficient.
True or False: An autoclave uses high-pressure steam to achieve sterilization.
True
False
Autoclaves use pressurized steam at high temperatures to destroy all forms of microbial life, including spores. This method is the gold standard for sterilizing critical instruments. Proper loading and cycle parameters are essential for efficacy.
Which documentation is required to track disinfectant use in a salon?
Daily cleaning logs with solutions and dates
Client satisfaction forms
Retail inventory lists
Employee work schedules
Keeping daily logs of disinfectant solutions, their dilution, and change dates ensures compliance with health regulations. Documentation aids in audits and demonstrates due diligence. Accurate records also help troubleshoot infection-control issues.
What is the effect of water hardness on disinfectant efficacy?
Water hardness enhances disinfectant strength
Soft water reduces efficacy
Hard water can inactivate certain disinfectants
It has no effect
Minerals in hard water can bind to disinfectant molecules, reducing their availability to kill microbes. Many labels recommend using soft or distilled water for dilution. Always check label guidelines regarding water quality.
Which pathogen is most resistant to disinfection?
Tuberculosis bacillus
Fungal spores
Bacterial endospores
Enveloped viruses
Bacterial endospores are the most resistant microbial form and require high-level disinfection or sterilization. They can survive harsh chemicals and environmental extremes. Other pathogens are killed with lower-level disinfectants.
Which disinfectant should NOT be used on natural hair or skin?
Quaternary ammonium compound
Percarbonate powder
Glutaraldehyde
Teatree oil solution
Glutaraldehyde is too harsh for natural hair or skin, causing irritation and burns. It’s intended only for nonporous medical instruments. Salon-safe products are milder and labeled for skin contact.
What concentration of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is recommended for general salon surface disinfection?
0.1% (one part bleach to nine parts water)
0.5% (one part bleach to nineteen parts water)
2% (one part bleach to forty-nine parts water)
5% (undiluted bleach)
A 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution (1:19 ratio) is commonly recommended for general disinfection of nonporous surfaces. Lower concentrations may not inactivate all pathogens, while higher concentrations can damage surfaces. Always prepare fresh daily.
Which method is MOST effective for monitoring autoclave performance?
Recording cycle temperature
Using chemical indicator strips inside packs
Quarterly biological spore tests
Daily visual inspection
Biological spore tests use living spores to confirm that sterilization conditions destroy the most resistant organisms. Quarterly testing ensures consistent autoclave performance. Chemical indicators and visual inspections are supplementary checks.
Which chemical class of disinfectants is typically inactivated by organic matter and requires thorough precleaning?
Alcohols
Chlorine-based compounds
Peroxide compounds
Quaternary ammonium compounds
Chlorine-based disinfectants are readily inactivated by organic loads like blood and oils. Precleaning to remove organic material is critical for efficacy. Alcohols also lose potency in presence of debris but less so than chlorine.
Which OSHA standard specifically addresses handling of bloodborne pathogens?
Hazard Communication Standard
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
Respiratory Protection Standard
Personal Protective Equipment Standard
OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) sets requirements to protect workers from exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. It mandates exposure control plans, training, and proper PPE use. Salons must comply if performing services with potential exposures.
In Milady’s infection control steps, which action comes immediately after cleaning?
Sanitizing
Disinfecting
Sterilizing
Storing
After cleaning removes debris, disinfection kills remaining pathogens on implements and surfaces. Sanitizing is a lower-level activity for hand hygiene. Sterilization is reserved for critical instruments. Proper sequencing is key for effective infection control.
Which dilution ratio of quaternary ammonium compounds is appropriate for foot spa basin disinfection?
Follow manufacturer instructions, typically 1:128
1:10
1:2
Undiluted
Foot spa disinfection requires specific dilution per product labeling, often around 1:128. Proper dilution ensures efficacy without damaging equipment. Always measure precisely and allow full contact time.
What is the recommended maximum temperature for an autoclave cycle to avoid damage to stainless steel instruments?
121°C
132°C
140°C
160°C
Many stainless steel instruments are rated for autoclave cycles at 132°C (270°F) for 4–10 minutes. Higher temperatures or prolonged cycles can pit or warp metal. Always follow instrument manufacturer guidelines.
Which class of medical devices uses chemical indicators to monitor sterilization effectiveness?
Class I
Class II
Class V
Class IV
Class V integrating indicators react to all sterilization parameters and are placed inside every pack. They provide a system-wide check on temperature, time, and steam penetration. Classes I–IV focus on single parameters.
Why must ultrasonic cleaners be checked daily for solution effectiveness?
To ensure proper cavitation energy
To verify temperature calibration
To check detergent fragrance
To maintain water level only
Ultrasonic cleaners rely on cavitation bubbles to remove debris; daily foil or aluminum tests verify proper energy. Without sufficient cavitation, cleaning is incomplete, affecting subsequent disinfection. Manufacturer protocols outline test procedures.
Which factor can reduce the shelf life of pre-mixed disinfectant solutions?
Exposure to sunlight
Storing at recommended temperature
Using opaque containers
Frequent agitation
Light, especially UV, can degrade active ingredients in disinfectants, reducing potency. Pre-mixed solutions should be stored in opaque, closed containers away from sunlight. Follow label storage recommendations to maintain efficacy.
Which is the LEAST effective method for disinfecting porous items?
Autoclaving
Immersion in liquid disinfectant
Dry heat sterilization
Chemical vapor sterilization
Porous items cannot be reliably disinfected by immersion because liquid may not penetrate all internal surfaces. Sterilization methods like autoclaving or dry heat ensure full penetration. Porous materials are best replaced or single-use.
Which of the following analytical methods BEST measures residual quaternary ammonium concentration in used disinfectant solutions?
Titration with silver nitrate
Spectrophotometric analysis
pH indicator strips
Gravimetric analysis
Spectrophotometric analysis quantifies quaternary ammonium compounds by measuring absorbance at specific wavelengths. It provides precise residual concentration data. Field tests are less accurate.
In infection control lab studies, which surrogate organism is used to validate mycobactericidal claims of disinfectants?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Mycobacterium terrae
Mycobacterium smegmatis
Mycobacterium bovis
Mycobacterium terrae is a nonpathogenic surrogate used in testing disinfectants for mycobactericidal activity. It mimics Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistance profiles. Using surrogates ensures lab safety while validating claims.
Which parameter change indicates failure in a Bowie-Dick test pack for steam penetration?
Uniform color change across pack
Incomplete color change
Complete drying after cycle
Mask still warm to touch
Incomplete color change in a Bowie-Dick test indicates inadequate steam penetration or air removal. This test is specific to pre-vacuum autoclaves. Regular testing ensures consistent sterilization.
What is the mode of action of peracetic acid in high-level disinfection?
Protein coagulation
Cell membrane disruption through oxidation
DNA intercalation
Enzyme competitive inhibition
Peracetic acid oxidizes cell membranes and proteins, causing irreversible damage to microbial structures. Its rapid action makes it effective for high-level disinfection. It decomposes into non-toxic byproducts.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Key Infection Control Principles -

    Gain a clear overview of chapter 5 infection control principles and practices, including the fundamental steps needed to maintain a sanitary salon environment.

  2. Identify Milady's Disinfection Protocols -

    Learn specific Milady chapter 5 infection control guidelines, from proper dilution of quats solutions to the correct use of hospital-grade disinfectants.

  3. Differentiate Disinfectant Types -

    Analyze the differences between virucidal, fungicidal, and bactericidal disinfectants to select the most effective products for various salon surfaces and tools.

  4. Apply the Two-Step Infection Control Process -

    Master what are the two steps of infection control - cleaning followed by disinfecting - to ensure complete removal of pathogens.

  5. Perform Daily Sanitization Duties -

    Demonstrate the ability to carry out routine cleaning and sanitization tasks that uphold salon safety standards and protect both clients and professionals.

  6. Evaluate Salon Safety Scenarios -

    Challenge yourself with real-world questions to assess and improve your decision-making when selecting salon-safe disinfection methods.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Two-Step Decontamination -

    Chapter 5 infection control principles and practices require a two-step process: cleaning followed by disinfection, directly answering "what are the two steps of infection control?" in Milady's guidelines. Remember the mnemonic "CD: Clean & Disinfect" to ensure surface debris removal before applying an EPA-registered disinfectant as per CDC standards.

  2. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) -

    Quats solutions are a cornerstone of milady chapter 5 infection control, offering broad-spectrum efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and certain viruses with a typical 10-minute contact time. Always mix according to the manufacturer's dilution ratio (e.g., 1:256) and label your container with date and time to maintain potency and log compliance as required by OSHA.

  3. Virucidal vs. Fungicidal Disinfectants -

    Understanding the difference between virucidal and fungicidal agents ensures proper selection for salon use in chapter 5 infection control; virucidals neutralize viruses like HIV and hepatitis, while fungicidals target nail fungus and mold. Standard EPA-registered products will list these claims on the label - use this checklist to verify efficacy against pathogens.

  4. Daily Sanitization Duties -

    Keeping workstations, implements, and footbaths sanitized daily prevents cross-contamination and aligns with milady ch 5 infection control guidelines. Schedule 15 minutes at opening and closing for thorough cleaning, use color-coded cloths, and store disinfected tools in sealed, labeled containers to maintain a visible audit trail.

  5. Labeling and Record-Keeping -

    Maintaining accurate logs of disinfection routines meets both salon safety standards and regulatory requirements for chapter 5 infection control. Document solution preparation times, tool sanitization steps, and equipment maintenance daily using standardized forms or digital apps endorsed by professional bodies.

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