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Artificial Nails Pose Infection Risks for Healthcare Workers

CDC Guidelines Advise Against Artificial Nails and Long Natural Nails

According to a recent report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), artificial nails and long natural nails can contribute to the spread of infections in healthcare settings. The report, published in the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, found that healthcare workers (HCWs) who wore artificial nails were more likely to have higher levels of bacteria on their hands than those who did not wear artificial nails.

Key Recommendations from the CDC:

• HCWs should not wear artificial nails or long natural nails.
• HCWs should keep their nails trimmed short and clean.
• Damaged nail polish should be removed promptly.

The CDC's recommendations are based on the findings of several studies that have linked artificial nails and long natural nails to an increased risk of infection. One study, published in the journal Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, found that HCWs who wore artificial nails were more likely to be colonized with Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can cause a variety of infections, including skin infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections.

Another study, published in the journal The Lancet, found that HCWs who wore artificial nails were more likely to spread viruses to patients. The study found that HCWs who wore artificial nails were more likely to have calicivirus on their hands than HCWs who did not wear artificial nails. Calicivirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause respiratory infections.

The CDC's recommendations are important for HCWs to follow in order to protect themselves and their patients from infection. By following these recommendations, HCWs can help to reduce the risk of infection in healthcare settings.