Medical Nail Care Techniques Flashcards

Which technique is used to reduce nail thickness in hypertrophic nails?

Answer: Burring/grinding with a rotary tool

Hypertrophic nails are safely thinned using a rotary burr or grinding tool, which reduces pressure and discomfort without removing the nail plate.

What is the correct position for a patient during nail debridement?

Answer: Seated with foot elevated and supported at a comfortable working height

Proper patient positioning with the foot elevated and supported allows the technician to work safely while reducing patient and provider fatigue.

When performing nail reduction on a diabetic patient, the technician should use:

Answer: Light, controlled strokes to avoid heat buildup

Diabetic patients have reduced sensation and impaired healing; light, controlled strokes minimize friction heat and trauma risk.

What is the primary purpose of nail soaking before treatment?

Answer: Soften the nail and surrounding tissue to ease debridement

Soaking softens hardened nail tissue and callus, reducing the force needed for debridement and lowering trauma risk.

Which emollient is most appropriate for post-treatment application on the nail folds?

Answer: Urea-based cream (10–25%)

Urea-based creams hydrate and soften hyperkeratotic tissue around the nail folds, promoting healing and preventing recurrence.

Which of the following best describes the 'clock face' method in nail bracing?

Answer: A placement guide describing brace wire positions around the nail

The clock face method uses clock positions (e.g., 3 o'clock, 9 o'clock) to describe and document brace wire placement on the nail plate.