Infection controlQuestion 209 of 1700
What is the rule for fingernails of health care workers?
- Long nails kept neat and covered with clear polish
- Artificial nails, as long as they are kept short and neat
- Short nails, tips under half an inch, and no polish
- Short nails with chipped polish only on the tips
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Correct answer: Short nails, tips under half an inch, and no polish
Artificial nails and chipped polish carry more germs on the hands, even after hand hygiene.
Source: Nursing Assistant (Reuter), 4.4: Precautions Used to Prevent the Spread of Infection
Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026