PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Prep

The most appropriate cleaning method for tools that contact blood is sterilization. This is because sterilization involves the complete elimination of all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. When tools come into contact with blood, there is a risk of transmitting bloodborne pathogens, which can lead to infections or other health issues. Sterilization ensures that these tools are safe for use on other clients or for any subsequent procedures.

Disinfection, while effective at reducing the number of microorganisms, does not guarantee the complete destruction of all pathogens, especially resistant types. Therefore, it is not sufficient for tools that have been exposed to blood. Sanitization generally refers to reducing the number of microbes to safe levels, often used for surfaces and not appropriate for tools that require a higher level of infection control. Regular cleaning simply removes dirt and debris but does not adequately address microbial contamination, making it unsuitable for tools in contact with blood. Thus, sterilization stands out as the safest and most effective method for ensuring the tools are free from harmful pathogens.