Banning artificial nails from health care settings

Outbreak of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase–ProducingKlebsiella Pneumoniaein a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Linked to Artificial Nails

“…As a result of this investigation, an institution-wide ban on the wearing of artificial nails was implemented; HCWs with direct patient contact must have wellgroomed, short, natural nails. 37…”

2007 Guideline for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Health Care Settings

“…Develop an organizational policy on the wearing of nonnatural nails by HCWs who have direct contact with patients outside of the groups specified above. 982 Category II IV.B. Personal protective equipment (see Fig 1) IV.B.1.…”

Recommended Practices for Surgical Attire

“…Recent studies found no increase in microbial growth related to wearing freshly applied nail polish; 35 , 37 however, nail polish that is obviously chipped or worn longer than four days is associated with the presence of greater numbers of bacteria and has been associated with infections. Surgical conscience, therefore, must be a foremost behavior in individuals who choose to wear nail polish in the surgical setting. Artificial nails should not be worn 2,32,38‐51 . Studies show that artificial (eg, acrylic) nails on healthy hands increase the risk of surgical site infection.…”

“…Artificial nails should not be worn 2,32,38‐51 . Studies show that artificial (eg, acrylic) nails on healthy hands increase the risk of surgical site infection.…”