Manicurist/Pedicurist
The Manicurist/Pedicurist domain tests nail and skin anatomy, nail disorders, implement sanitation, pedicure basin safety, and massage. The Board expects the licensee to recognize contagious conditions and refuse service when necessary.
Nail anatomy and disorders
- Nail plate, nail bed, matrix, cuticle, and lunula.
- Do not cut living tissue; push back cuticle gently.
- Green-black discoloration under the nail may be Pseudomonas; do not service; refer.
Sanitation
- Disinfect implements after each client with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant.
- Porous files and buffers are single-use or discarded.
- Clean and disinfect pedicure basins; follow contact time.
Worked example
A client has a green discoloration on the big toenail and asks for a pedicure. Reasoning: the color suggests a bacterial or fungal infection, which can spread through tools and water. Do not soak, file, or apply polish. Refer to a health care provider, disinfect the station, and document the refusal.
Traps
- Using a credo blade or cutting cuticles.
- Reusing files without disinfection.
- Skipping basin disinfection.
- Applying polish over a suspected infection.