Oklahoma Cosmetology Board Practice Exam

In an emergency situation, what is the first thing a cosmetologist should do?

1. Administer first aid

2. Ensure the safety of the client and seek help if necessary

3. Call the media

4. Document the incident for records

The correct answer is: Ensure the safety of the client and seek help if necessary

In an emergency situation, the most crucial first step for a cosmetologist is to ensure the safety of the client and seek help if necessary. This means assessing the situation to ensure that both the client and the cosmetologist are in a safe environment and removing any potential hazards. Once safety is established, the cosmetologist can focus on providing assistance to the client, which may involve administering first aid or calling for additional help. Prioritizing safety is essential because without it, further actions like administering first aid or documenting the incident could endanger both the client and the provider. By ensuring safety first, the cosmetologist lays the groundwork for effectively managing the emergency and addressing the client's needs appropriately. This foundational step underscores the importance of situational awareness in any professional setting, especially in cosmetology, where various tools and products are used that could contribute to emergencies.