Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

What is the main approach to infection control in tattooing?

1. Sterilization techniques

2. Personal protective equipment

3. Universal precautions

4. Hand washing only

The correct answer is: Universal precautions

The main approach to infection control in tattooing is centered around universal precautions. Universal precautions are a set of guidelines designed to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens and reduce the risk of infection for both the tattoo artist and the client. This approach involves treating all blood and bodily fluids as if they are infectious, which is crucial in a setting where skin is being pierced and exposure to blood is likely. By adopting universal precautions, tattoo artists utilize a combination of measures, including proper sanitation of equipment and surfaces, the use of clean needles, and appropriate disposal of hazardous materials. This comprehensive framework ensures a high level of safety that encompasses various aspects of infection control, rather than relying on a single method alone. While sterilization techniques and personal protective equipment (PPE) are important components of infection control, they are part of the broader universal precautions approach, which provides a guideline for practice in a tattoo setting. Hand washing also plays a vital role but is merely one aspect of the universal precautions that contributes to overall safety. This multifaceted strategy is vital for minimizing the risk of infections in the tattooing process.