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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Nail Care Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all residents at {{org_field_name}} receive appropriate, safe, and effective nail care as part of their personal hygiene and overall well-being. Good nail care is essential for preventing infections, maintaining comfort, and promoting dignity. This policy aligns with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, and best practices in infection prevention and control.

This policy ensures that nail care is delivered in a way that respects residents’ personal preferences, minimises the risk of infection, and promotes good hygiene practices. It also outlines how staff should manage nail care safely and efficiently, including when specialist intervention is required.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All residents at {{org_field_name}} who require assistance with nail care, including those with mobility issues, diabetes, or other health conditions that affect foot and hand health.
• All care staff responsible for providing basic nail care.
• External professionals such as podiatrists or chiropodists who provide specialist foot and nail care.
• Relatives or visitors who may be involved in supporting residents’ personal care.

3. Principles of Nail Care Management

3.1 Personalisation and Resident Choice

Nail care is a personal aspect of grooming, and all residents should be supported to maintain their preferred nail length and style, provided it does not pose a risk to their health. Staff should always obtain resident consent before carrying out any nail care procedures. If a resident lacks capacity to make decisions about their nail care, the process should follow the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, ensuring that decisions are made in their best interests.

Residents should be encouraged to perform their own nail care whenever possible. If assistance is required, staff must ensure that residents are comfortable and involved in the process, respecting their preferences for frequency, nail length, and any cosmetic considerations such as nail polish application.

3.2 Infection Control and Hygiene Measures

To minimise the risk of cross-contamination, infections, and injuries, the following hygiene measures must be adhered to:

• Staff must wash hands thoroughly before and after assisting with nail care.
• Nail care tools must be sanitised before and after each use, or single-use disposable tools should be provided.
• Each resident should have a personal nail care kit to prevent the spread of infections such as fungal infections or bacterial paronychia.
• If a resident has a suspected fungal nail infection or any other nail-related condition, staff must report this to the nurse or senior carer so that appropriate medical advice can be sought.

Residents with diabetes or circulatory conditions must be assessed carefully before any nail care is provided, as improper nail trimming can lead to infections or complications. In such cases, referrals to a podiatrist or chiropodist must be made.

3.3 Basic Nail Care Procedures for Staff

Care staff at {{org_field_name}} may perform basic nail care for residents who do not have any medical conditions requiring specialist intervention. This includes:

• Trimming hand nails straight across, ensuring edges are smooth to prevent scratching.
• Using a gentle nail file to prevent sharp edges or uneven surfaces.
• Cleaning under the nails to remove dirt and debris.
• Moisturising hands and nails to prevent dryness and cracking.

Staff must NOT:

• Cut toenails, unless specifically trained and authorised to do so.
• Use sharp instruments such as scissors on fragile nails.
• Perform nail care on residents with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or any suspected foot infections—such cases must be referred to a podiatrist.
• Attempt to remove ingrown nails or fungal infections without medical guidance.

3.4 Specialist Nail Care and External Professionals

For residents with complex nail care needs, such as thickened nails, fungal infections, ingrown nails, or conditions related to diabetes, the following protocol applies:

• A referral will be made to a qualified podiatrist or chiropodist.
• Any recommended treatment must be recorded in the resident’s care plan, ensuring ongoing monitoring of their condition.
• Staff should support residents in attending podiatry appointments and assist in following any medical advice given.

Care staff must liaise with healthcare professionals to ensure residents receive timely and appropriate nail care interventions.

3.5 Safety Considerations and Risk Assessments

To prevent injuries, infections, and distress, nail care must be delivered in a safe and controlled manner. Risk assessments must be conducted for residents who:

• Have a history of foot ulcers, infections, or poor circulation.
• Have thickened or brittle nails that require professional trimming.
• Experience pain, swelling, or redness in the nail area.

Any concerns identified during routine nail care must be escalated to a nurse or senior carer immediately. The findings must also be documented in the resident’s care plan to ensure ongoing monitoring and action.

3.6 Nail Care in Relation to Dignity and Wellbeing

At {{org_field_name}}, personal care, including nail care, must be provided with dignity and respect. This means:

• Providing nail care in a private setting to maintain resident comfort.
• Engaging the resident in conversation to ensure they are comfortable and reassured during the procedure.
• Offering opportunities for cosmetic nail care such as nail polish application where preferred.

Residents must feel empowered in their grooming routines. If a resident expresses a preference for professional manicures or pedicures, staff will help facilitate appointments with a local provider, ensuring risk assessments are conducted beforehand.

4. Responsibilities

4.1 Management Responsibilities

Management must ensure that:

• All staff involved in nail care receive appropriate training in hygiene and safety.
• Specialist referrals are made promptly for residents requiring podiatry services.
• A system is in place for recording and monitoring residents’ nail care needs.
• Nail care procedures are included in care plans to ensure continuity of care.
• CIW inspectors have access to records that demonstrate compliance with best practices in nail care.

4.2 Staff Responsibilities

Care staff must:

• Follow infection prevention protocols during nail care.
• Ensure that residents are comfortable and involved in their grooming choices.
• Record and report any abnormalities such as swelling, infections, or changes in nail condition.
• Refer residents to podiatrists when necessary and support them in following treatment plans.

4.3 Resident and Family Responsibilities

Residents and families are encouraged to:

• Communicate nail care preferences to staff.
• Inform staff of any changes in health conditions that may affect nail care.
• Seek professional podiatry services if needed, with support from care staff.

5. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• Managing Service User Finances Policy (for funding specialist nail care)
• Dignity and Respect Policy
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes in legislation, best practices, or concerns raised regarding nail care management. The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with CIW regulations and healthcare standards.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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