Practical Kit and Five Timed Demonstrations

Rehearse the whole demonstration

The PSI practical examination evaluates safe performance throughout five topic areas. Its approximate ninety-minute length is divided into separate clocks; unused time in one area is not permission to continue after the stop instruction. Prepare supplies and rehearse setup, service and cleanup as complete skills.

The tasks are daily workstation preparation, basic manicure, nail-tip application, enhancement using a form, and preparation for the next client. Read the current rating criteria before packing. PSI does not provide a universal supply list or require one school's technique. Demonstrate the task as trained, while meeting infection-control, client-protection and safety expectations.

Pack a permitted kit

Bring a closable supply kit containing the products, equipment and supplies needed for the tasks. PSI suggests dimensions no greater than twenty-four inches in each direction so it can fit under the table; treat that as the bulletin's suggested size rather than an invented universal commercial kit requirement. Cover candidate and school names on the person and supplies as directed.

Bring two used-item containers clearly marked single-use and multiuse. Put each used item in its proper stream. Keep clean supplies protected, and bring suitable replacements according to the instructions so a dropped item does not force unsafe reuse. Do not search through clean stock with contaminated hands.

Product rules

Hazardous chemical products require the manufacturer's labeling in the form permitted by the bulletin. Labels must be legible and visible to the evaluator. Disinfectant labeling must list bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal properties. Monomer must be factory sealed and manufacturer labeled low odor or odorless. Aerosols are prohibited in the test area.

Some nonhazardous demonstration products may be simulated under PSI's rules. Do not assume that permission applies to every chemical. Use the bulletin's distinction and prepare the allowed product before test day. A self-created label cannot substitute for required manufacturer information on a hazardous chemical.

Task one: prepare the station

Within ten minutes, arrange the working area so the task can proceed safely. Prepare clean contact surfaces, protected stock, required coverings and suitable equipment placement. Separate clean and used zones. Verify that nothing interferes with safe hand positioning or creates an electrical, spill or trip risk.

When finished, stand quietly and wait. Do not continue adjusting supplies after a stop instruction or observe another candidate for guidance. The evaluator watches infection control and safety throughout, not just the final arrangement.

Tasks two and three: manicure and tip

For the basic manicure, use the five-minute setup period to prepare the client and station. During the ten-minute service, demonstrate controlled nail work and protection of living tissue. During the five-minute cleanup, segregate used supplies and restore the appropriate station condition. Do not let cosmetic finishing consume the cleanup period.

For tip application, repeat the separate setup, service and cleanup sequence. Fit the tip appropriately and control adhesive exposure. Maintain clean handling even when a supply must be replaced. A tip that looks neat does not erase contamination or unsafe skin contact.

Task four: form enhancement

Use five minutes for setup, twenty for service and five for cleanup. Fit the form safely, apply the supported product and demonstrate controlled structure and finishing. Keep reactive products away from skin and follow equipment instructions. Use required client protection, including applicable eyewear for acrylic particle-producing work.

Rehearse product working time with the actual permitted system. Do not improvise a new monomer or technique on exam day. The task evaluates what can be shown safely within the allotted period, and unfinished activities receive no score under PSI's timing rule.

Task five and departure

Use the final ten minutes to prepare for the next client. Segregate tools, remove waste and debris, clean and disinfect the station appropriately, and restore the contact area. Final instructions require clearing the floor and work area, returning brought supplies and trash to the kit for removal, raising a hand and waiting for proctor sign-off.

Stop immediately when instructed. Personal timers are not permitted; listen to the announced warnings. Evaluators do not coach the technique or discuss scores during the performance. Direct later score questions through PSI's report instructions.

Practice method

Conduct a full rehearsal with an instructor or suitable training partner using the current bulletin's clocks and criteria. Review where contamination occurred, what was unfinished and whether tissue protection remained controlled. Repeat the weak task rather than merely speed every movement. For the examination, safe sequence and visible correct handling support the result throughout all five demonstrations.

Source checked October 10, 2026: PSI practical instructions and rating criteria.