Why Nurses Can't Wear Nail Polish

CDC Guidelines

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare personnel should not wear artificial nails and should keep natural nails less than a quarter inch long.

Health Reasons

There are several health reasons for this rule. Long nails can harbor bacteria and viruses, which can be passed on to patients. Artificial nails can also chip and break, creating sharp edges that could cause injury.

Infection Control

Nurses and other healthcare professionals must follow strict infection control protocols to prevent the spread of disease. Wearing nail polish can make it difficult to wash hands properly, as it can create a barrier between the soap and the skin.

Professional Appearance

In addition to health and safety concerns, many healthcare facilities also have policies against wearing nail polish as it can be unprofessional and distracting.

Exceptions

There may be some exceptions to these rules. For example, some nurses may be allowed to wear nail polish if they work in a non-patient care area. It is important to check with your employer's policies before wearing nail polish at work.