Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

What is the first step when dealing with a tangled section of hair?

1. Brush the entire head of hair

2. Wet the tangled section of hair

3. Apply styling gel to the hair

4. Use a hair dryer on low heat

The correct answer is: Wet the tangled section of hair

Wetting the tangled section of hair is an effective first step in dealing with tangles because moisture helps to soften the hair, making it more pliable and easier to work with. This is crucial because when hair is dry, it tends to be more resistant and fragile, which can lead to breakage during detangling. By wetting the hair, you can reduce friction as you gently work through the tangles. Additionally, using water or a leave-in conditioner can help to separate strands without causing undue stress to the hair. Brushing the entire head of hair initially may exacerbate the problem, making tangles worse rather than resolving them. Applying styling gel wouldn’t aid in detangling; moreover, it might make the hair stiffer and harder to manage. Using a hair dryer, even on low heat, could dry out the tangles further or create more knots, making the detangling process even more difficult. Thus, wetting the tangled section properly prepares the hair for the softening and detangling process ahead.