Nail Care and Manicuring/Pedicuring
What this domain tests
Nail items test nail anatomy, recognition of disorders, implement disinfection, and safe manicure and pedicure procedure.
Core concepts
- Anatomy: the nail plate is the visible nail; the matrix produces it; the lunula is the visible part of the matrix; the cuticle is dead tissue on the plate; the eponychium is living skin at the base; the hyponychium is under the free edge.
- Disorders: onychomycosis is fungal; paronychia is inflammation around the nail; green discoloration suggests Pseudomonas. Refer suspected infections rather than masking them with product.
- Implements: metal tools must be cleaned and then disinfected with an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant after each client. Porous files and buffers are difficult to disinfect and are best single-use.
- Procedure: file in one direction with light pressure, push back cuticle gently, do not cut living tissue, and keep the client’s skin intact.
Worked example
During a pedicure you notice green-black discoloration under the nail plate. Stop the service, do not apply polish, and refer the client for medical evaluation. Clean and disinfect the implements and discard porous items. Document the observation factually.
Traps that cost marks
Cuticle and eponychium are not interchangeable. Disinfection is not sterilization. Nippers should not be used to dig into living tissue. A blood exposure requires gloves and the blood-spill procedure, not a quick wipe.