Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/97199
Proper Disinfection The practice of esthetics requires that we perform proper disinfection on the implements we use (see ���Beating the Bugs,��� ASCP Skin Deep, November/ December 2012, page 22). During cold and flu season, consider expanding this to items you might not normally disinfect, such as doorknobs, hard furniture, and the telephone. When used properly, disinfectants are very effective, and a few extra minutes might mean the difference between a week in bed and a healthy winter. Have you had all your shots? The most underimmunized group in America is women aged 30���55. Your Cancellation Policy While we all understand that time is money, and a last-minute cancellation can take a bite out of the paycheck, weigh the benefits of allowing clients to cancel without penalty if the reason is sickness. This is better than having a sick client pass germs along to other clients and professionals in your workplace, or missing a week of work yourself. Of course, some clients might abuse this policy, but the majority will not. With the quick onset of flu symptoms, most people literally go to bed fine and wake up sick, and will not always be able to give you the expected amount of notice to cancel their appointment. While all of these tips are written to help prevent illness during the winter, incorporating them into your daily life is good for every season. Make this flu season all about avoidance so that you can help your clients stay vibrant all through the winter, and also become a walking role model yourself. Leslie Roste has degrees in nursing and microbiology, and is currently employed by King Research in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She speaks to various industry groups throughout the country and also works with textbook manufacturers as an editor for infection control material. Contact her at lroste@king-research.com. Get connected to your peers @ www.skincareprofessionals.com 33