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Microbiological flora and nail polish: a brief report
G M Rayan1, D J Flournoy, P Schlageter
1Baptist Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
The Journal of the Oklahoma State Medical Association
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Nail polish on operating room staff and patients may harbor bacteria. This study investigated the prevalence of microbiological flora on nail polish in a clinical environment, highlighting potential infection control risks.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Healthcare Epidemiology
Background:
- Nail polish removal is recommended for operating room (OR) personnel and patients undergoing hand surgery.
- Compliance with these recommendations is often low in many healthcare settings.
- Concerns exist regarding nail polish as a potential vector for transmitting infectious agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of microbiological flora present on nail polish.
- To assess the clinical relevance of nail polish in microbial transmission within a hospital setting.
Main Methods:
- Microbiological sampling of nail polish worn by individuals in a clinical setting.
- Culturing and identification of microorganisms found on the nail polish samples.
Main Results:
- Analysis of collected samples revealed the presence of various microbiological flora on nail polish.
- Specific types and prevalence of bacteria and fungi were identified.
Conclusions:
- Nail polish can harbor significant microbiological flora in a clinical setting.
- Findings support the recommendation for nail polish removal to mitigate infection transmission risks.
- Further research may explore the impact of nail polish on hand hygiene efficacy.
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