Nail Polish and Acrylic Nails: Understanding the Risks During Surgery
What the Experts Say
When preparing for surgery, it's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions regarding nail care. Most medical professionals advise against wearing nail polish or acrylic nails during surgery. These adornments may interfere with essential monitoring and increase the risk of infection.
Risk to Patient Safety
Nail polish and acrylic nails can obstruct the pulse oximeter, a device used to measure blood oxygen levels during surgery. Accurate readings are vital for monitoring patient well-being and ensuring proper anesthesia levels.
Infection Control
Artificial nails and nail polish can harbor bacteria that could be transferred to the surgical site during the procedure, increasing the risk of infection. Good Samaritan Hospital is considering a ban on acrylic nails in operating rooms to minimize this risk.
Alternatives for Nail Care
To ensure optimal patient safety during surgery, it's recommended to remove all nail polish and acrylic nails before the procedure. This allows for proper monitoring and infection control. Keeping nails short and clean is the preferred approach.
Conclusion
Understanding the risks associated with nail polish and acrylic nails during surgery is essential for patient safety. By following the advice of medical professionals and removing these adornments before the procedure, patients can help ensure a successful outcome.
Comments