Publication Date

Spring 5-5-2025

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Sabio, Cristan

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) continue to be a major concern in hospital settings, with one in thirty-one patients affected daily in the United States (CDC, 2020). While hand hygiene is widely promoted, the impact of nail enhancements worn by healthcare workers is often overlooked. Acrylics, gels, and other artificial nails can harbor bacteria even after handwashing and glove use, increasing the risk of infection transmission.

The purpose of this study was to explore whether hospitals with stricter nail enhancement policies have better staff hygiene practices and potentially lower rates of HAIs. This research used an original survey distributed to registered nurses in Facebook groups. The survey gathered 25 responses about workplace policy, hygiene habits, training, and nail enhancement use.

Findings showed that nurses working in hospitals with restrictive policies reported more frequent handwashing, more consistent glove changes, and higher awareness of infection control protocols. Over 60% of nurses who wore nail enhancements admitted to inconsistent hygiene practices or a lack of training. Along with current literature, these results support the hypothesis that policy clarity and staff education improve infection prevention behavior.

In conclusion, nail enhancements are more than a cosmetic adjustment, they are directly linked to patient safety. Hospitals should consider standardizing policies, increasing training, and reinforcing hand hygiene practices to minimize the risk of HAIs.

Suggested Citation

Johnson, S. (2025). The Effects of Healthcare Professionals Wearing Nail Enhancements (Undergraduate Honors Capstone, Northern Illinois University). Northern Illinois University Honors Program.

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