
7.017 Fingernail Policy for ASC Personnel with Direct Patient Contact The surgical center applies this policy equitably and inclusively, and management expects staff to do so in good faith. Purpose: To prevent infection by ensuring proper hand and nail hygiene among ASC staff with direct patient contact. Policy: All ASC staff with direct patient contact must maintain clean and well-groomed fingernails and a healthy hand skin condition. Artificial Nails The ASC defines Artificial nails as press-on, extenders, studs, stones, or other objects positioned on top of the natural nail that are elevated and irregular. These are not allowed as they can be a potential source of infection and can also inhibit proper hand hygiene. Nail Enhancements The ASC defines Nail enhancements as nail paint, gel, and shellac. These are allowed, as evidence against them is weak/moderate and inconsistent, as long as they are undamaged, free of chipping, adequately maintained, and do not interfere with proper hand hygiene, job performance, or glove integrity. Staff must ensure that their nails are trimmed, clean, rounded, and at a length that does not inhibit them from performing their duties or putting themselves or their patient at risk for exposure. Staff must wash their hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub before and after each patient encounter and after any activity that may contaminate the hands. Staff must report any cuts, sores, or other skin conditions that may prevent them from maintaining proper hand hygiene to the supervisor. Implementation: The infection Control Nurse or designee will educate staff on hand and nail hygiene, proper hand-washing techniques, and alcohol-based rubs. Supervisors will monitor staff compliance with the policy and provide corrective action as needed. The ASC will provide hand hygiene products and education materials for staff. Evaluation: The infection Control Nurse or designee will evaluate the effectiveness of this policy annually and through regular staff education and monitoring of staff compliance. Nurses are reminded of the standards of nursing practice specified in 22 Texas Administrative Code Rule 217.11 (B)(O), which includes Implementing measures to promote a safe environment for clients and others and Implementing measures to prevent exposure to infectious pathogens and communicable conditions. Reference: AORN INC. (2022). Guidelines for perioperative practice.
Quiz by Jose Cordova
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