Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

What type of test is recommended for elderly clients prior to a paraffin wax treatment?

1. Acid test

2. Patch test

3. Pre-service wax patch test

4. Electrical sensitivity test

The correct answer is: Pre-service wax patch test

The recommended test for elderly clients prior to a paraffin wax treatment is a pre-service wax patch test. This test is essential because it helps determine the client's sensitivity and any potential adverse reactions to the paraffin wax used during the treatment. Elderly clients often have more sensitive skin or may have underlying skin conditions that could exacerbate reactions. Conducting a patch test allows the technician to apply a small amount of paraffin wax to a discreet area of the skin to observe for any immediate allergic reactions, irritation, or discomfort. This proactive step ensures the safety and comfort of the client, allowing for necessary modifications or precautions to be taken before proceeding with the full treatment. Other types of tests, such as an acid test or electrical sensitivity test, do not specifically address the reactions relevant to the paraffin wax treatment and are therefore not appropriate in this context. A patch test directly assesses the client’s individual response to the product in question, making it the most suitable precautionary measure in this scenario.