Gel polish

BeachsideRN, ASN · May 29, 2016

We were told it was not by our faculty

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · May 29, 2016

It's not perfect and can have microscopic chips and as such not sanitary. While more durable than typical polish it's still kit permitted in many units/facilities.

AJJKRN · May 30, 2016

The ladies, and a few gents, at my facility wear something called shellac polish. I don't know much about either because I really haven't painted my nails in a decade.

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · May 30, 2016

You'll have to look at your policy to see if it is allowed. To be honest, some facilities are more lax than they used to be.

heron, ASN, RN · May 30, 2016

You'll have to look at your policy to see if it is allowed. To be honest, some facilities are more lax than they used to be.

Thal'll last until they get their first superbug outbreak, then watch out!

klone, MSN, RN · May 30, 2016

Well, it's no less sanitary than regular nail polish.

klone, MSN, RN · May 30, 2016

The ladies, and a few gents, at my facility wear something called shellac polish. I don't know much about either because I really haven't painted my nails in a decade.

That's what gel polish is. Shellac is just a brand of that.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · May 30, 2016

Well, it's no less sanitary than regular nail polish.

Most facilities, or at least high risk clinical areas such as NICU, PICU & oncology don't allow any kind of polish because microorganisms like to grow in the small chips/cracks.

BmoreOrioles · May 30, 2016

That's what I figured that it was unsanitary. I was hopeful because it lasts longer but not going to risk it. I start a job this week in LTAC and I guess I'll start it with naked nails. :) thanks every one for replies.

SallyTheCamel · May 31, 2016

One good thing about home health! I am allowed to wear polish. I get a manicure every 1.5-2 weeks and keep my nails very short (not past fingertips). I do work with a couple of ladies that have tips and very elaborate designs (crystals, charms, designs).

NurseMegP, BSN, RN · Jun 11, 2016

I work on a med surg unit who is pretty laid back about nail polish but most days I still take mine off. Special occasions I might get them done but I would say get a feel for your unit first and know that you should always of course wear gloves when it comes to patient contact :). I see some nurses who get the little gems on their nails and that to me is a HUGE no-no... but the polish as long as it's not super chipped I think would be OK if you're gloving.