are "fake nails" okay for nurses?

[Ruffles]

I am a nursing student graduating next month. I wore "fake nails" before nursing school, but my program did not allow them during school. I am considering getting them again after graduation. What is your opinion and the policies at the facilities where you work? Are they a health hazaard to patients if proper handwashing precautions are used? Have you read any studies on the "fake nail" issue?

[BSNtobe2009]

I never said it didn't I was just stating that there is a reason why some people wear them.

[Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN]

I never said it didn't I was just stating that there is a reason why some people wear them.

I'm well aware of that. I had them put on for my wedding, and wore them for 14 days. But i also wasn't at work, and soaked them off 2 days before i returned, buffed the real ones smooth and put a clear coat of polish on.

My natural nails and hands look like crap, but that's also my opinion, and i really don't think that my opinion of the physical appearance of my natural hands and nails should be reason enough for me to put on fake nails (short or long), made of a material that has been proven to harbor bacteria and fungus, and put my pts. at risk. It's not worth the risks or the possible consequences.

[Iridescent Orchid, CNA, LPN]

I just recently got acrylics, to go ahead and get it out of the way. I've been wanting them for a while, but I just haven't ever took the plunge. I figured I have from now 'til the beginning of January to get them out of my system. LOL, I am taking my core classes and then I am going to get them removed once I start my actual programs and clinicals. I don't want them getting in my way, plus the whole germ issue is something I feel very strongly about as a part of Nursing, I don't feel any type of fake nails should be worn while on the job, it only leaves room for problems.

[auschk]

i have had acrylic nails since i was 16 recently changed profession moving into age care after being at my facility over 12 months staff were told that all false nails were to be removed. i did remove them for a period of time but because my natural nail is brittle and damaged i had them put back on. My problem is as mentioned in a previous post my acrylic nails are always kept short and no colour on them filed every day to make sure they are smooth. the only time that i have ever caused a skin tear was when i didn't have them on. we had an infection control training afternoon and i was one of the only ones that showed a good result after the handwashing exercise. to say that acrylic nails look unprofessional i personally think is ridiculous.

[xtxrn, ASN, RN]

Personal feeling- they're germ traps (and worse) for nurses.... I don't have any opposition to them for people who don't work in healthcare, but find them a great way to either bring bugs home, or from home.....

If nails are done fairly short, I don't think that's a problem- but the 1 inch long, curled ones- uh, no.... JMHO

[Cat_RN, ASN, BSN, RN]

Why do these threads pop up after being dead for YEARS?