Nails
...ls (Hedderwick, et al., 2000). McNeil, S.A., Foster, C.L., Hedderwick, S.A., & Kauffman, C.A. (2001). Effects of hand cleansing with antimicrobial soap or alcohol-based gel on microbial colonization of artificial fingernails worn by health care workers. Clinical Infectious Disease. 32. p. 367-372. Hedderwick, S.A., McNeil, S.A., Lyons, M.J., & Kauffman, C.A (2000). Pathogenic organisms associated with artificial nails worn by healthcare workers. Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology. 21(8). p. 505-509. Another research study showed that fresh and well-manicured polish does not harbor more bacteria; however, damaged and chipped nail polish does harbor more bacteria (Wynad, et al., 1994). Wynd. C.A., Samstag, D.E., & Lapp, A.M. (1994). Bacterial carriage on the fingernails of OR nurses. AORN Journal. 60(5). p. 796-805. Proposed Change Artificial nails are prohibited in any hospital employee that has contact with patients. Fingernails should not extend past 1/8” from the finger. Any chipped or damaged nail polish must be removed. Unfreezing Need will be assessed by gathering research and conducting surveys. Infection rates also need to be examined. Hospital employees affected need to informed about the new change and the reason the change is needed. Seek approval from staff and hospital. Advertise the change one-month prior to implementing so employees have adequate time to comply with the new policy. Moving New policy is implemented into Dress Code. Trial period for six months. Nurse Managers and Charge Nurses are responsible for assessing compliance. Employees who violate the new policy must be reported. Disciplinary plan is outlined in the Dress Code Policy. Infection rates monitored. Surveys sent to employers and patients. Refreezing After favorable surveys and a decrease in the infection ra...