Manicure, pedicure, and nail care
What this domain tests
Manicure, pedicure and nail care tests nail anatomy, assessment, safe filing and cuticle work, massage, pedicure risks and infection control.
Core rules
- The nail plate is produced by the matrix. The lunula is the visible part of the matrix; the cuticle seals the nail fold. The eponychium is the living skin at the base; the hyponychium seals under the free edge.
- Assess nails for colour, shape, surface, thickness and surrounding skin. Do not diagnose. Refer changes such as dark streaks, spreading discolouration, separation, pain, swelling or suspected fungal or bacterial infection.
- Contraindications include active infection, open wounds, severe dermatitis and uncontrolled diabetes with foot complications. Diabetic clients need extra care and may require medical advice.
- File in one direction for natural nails to reduce splitting; use fine abrasives; avoid aggressive cuticle cutting. Push back gently only if appropriate.
- Pedicure requires foot assessment, especially in older clients and those with circulatory or neurological disease. Check for ingrown nails and refer.
- Sterilise reusable metal tools; use disposable files, buffers and orange sticks; clean basins and footbaths between clients; wear gloves as needed.
- Massage with suitable cream, avoiding inflamed areas; advise on cuticle oil and moisturiser.
Worked example
A client has a thickened, yellow, crumbly toenail. This may be fungal infection. Do not treat it as a cosmetic pedicure; advise medical assessment and avoid sharing tools. Clean and disinfect the area and document the referral.
Traps
Cutting cuticles aggressively; filing back and forth; treating an infected nail; and ignoring diabetes-related foot risk.