MT Nail Technician study plan

Define each link in the infection chain and give one nail-salon example of how to break it

Distinguish cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization, and list which salon items fall into each category

Compare hospital-grade disinfectants (quats, phenolics, bleach) on contact time, dilution, and material compatibility

Demonstrate proper handwashing and glove use sequence, including when gloves must be changed between clients

Identify Montana-specific handling rules for blood exposure and contaminated sharps

Build a daily and weekly disinfection schedule for a full-service nail station, naming every surface and tool

Explain how to recognize and respond to common communicable conditions (fungal infections, warts, herpes whitlow, bacterial paronychia) before service

Label the structures of the natural nail unit (matrix, bed, plate, cuticle, eponychium, hyponychium, lunula, sidewalls) on a blank diagram

Differentiate nail disorders from nail diseases and state which require referral to a physician

Describe normal nail growth rate and factors that alter it

Perform a full basic manicure sequence in correct order, timing each step

Perform a full pedicure sequence including foot soak, exfoliation, callus reduction, and massage, timed end to end

Select and use nippers, pusher, curette, and files safely, stating the contraindication for each

Adapt manicure and pedicure procedures for clients with diabetes, circulatory issues, or sensitive skin

Explain massage contraindications and sanitation of implements between services

Mix acrylic liquid and powder at correct ratio and explain the symptoms of too-wet and too-dry beads

Apply a tip and blend the seam without damaging the natural nail plate

Demonstrate the three common wrap systems and state when each is preferred

Explain proper removal of tips, wraps, and acrylics without force or nail-plate trauma

Identify causes of lifting, cracking, and green discoloration and the corrective action for each

Describe the gel chemistry, cure requirements, and lamp-compatibility issues that cause under-curing

Apply a gel polish and a hard-gel overlay with correct thin-layer technique and no product on the skin

Perform safe gel removal and identify signs of over-filing or allergic reaction

Design and execute three nail art looks using stamping, hand-painting, and encapsulation

Explain how art placement and shape affect perceived nail length and balance

Conduct a structured client consultation covering health history, lifestyle, expectations, and contraindications

Write and role-play responses to three difficult client scenarios (dissatisfaction, late arrival, refusal of service)

Explain scope of practice and when to refer a client out

Draft a service menu with pricing, timing, and policies for cancellations and no-shows

Describe record-keeping, consent, and confidentiality obligations for a nail professional

Summarize Montana licensing, sanitation, and continuing-education requirements for nail technicians

List the Montana rules on tool disinfection, single-use items, and record retention

Explain scope of practice and prohibited procedures under Montana law

Identify the penalties and enforcement process for violations

Locate the official Montana source documents and note how to verify current requirements

Complete a full-length timed practice exam and review every missed item to its source

Re-drill the five weakest topics identified from the practice exam

Rehearse sanitation and safety steps aloud for each domain during a mock practical

Review all deliverables from weeks 1-7 and correct any gaps

Build a one-page final-review sheet of high-risk facts