Hello, the OB nurse has a dumb question.

[quazar]

Pardon my ignorance, and yes I did a google search first (of course). I want to check with the pros though to make sure.

I have a friend who will be starting chemo and radiation soon, and apparently there is talk of neutropenic precautions. I wanted to offer to paint her nails (just something I enjoy and am good at) before she went into the hospital, but then worried that nail polish might be a big no no. I would only do a pedicure because of the need for nailbed visualization and O2 sat monitor etc..

Is it safe to paint her toes (no sharp objects!!) before she goes in?

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

There are no contraindications to nail polish in terms of neutropenic precautions. Also, neutropenic precautions apply when a person is neutropenic. Someone who has not yet started chemo would not be considered neutropenic until white blood cell counts drop after initiation of therapy.

[quazar]

There are no contraindications to nail polish in terms of neutropenic precautions. Also, neutropenic precautions apply when a person is neutropenic. Someone who has not yet started chemo would not be considered neutropenic until white blood cell counts drop after initiation of therapy.

*forehead smack* Thank you, I should know better, but my brain just locks up when it's a friend. She is going to have to be in isolation due to radiation, apparently, so the point is moot unfortunately. Thank you for the reply.