The nurse is applying for a job at a local hospital.She wants to look her best for the interview and decides to wear artificial nails.She does this knowing that artificial nails:
A)are appropriate in the ICU setting as long as the nurse washes her hands frequently.
B)can lead to fungal growth under the nail.
C)can actually lower the bacterial count on the hands because they cover the natural nail.
D)are banned only in areas where patients are critically ill.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Numerous reports identify that fungal growth frequently occurs under artificial nails as a result of moisture becoming trapped between the natural nail and the artificial nail.Because of the risks for infection posed by artificial nail use,health care workers who have direct contact with patients at high risk (e.g. ,those in intensive care units or operating rooms)should not wear artificial nails.Health care workers who wear artificial nails or nail extenders are more likely to harbor gram-negative pathogens on their fingertips,both before and after handwashing.Many health care institutions have chosen to ban artificial nails and extenders in all clinical areas,with the rationale that all patients are at risk for infection.

The Nurse Is Applying for a Job at a Local