California Cosmetology Written ExamNail CareMedium
A client's toenail has separated from the nail bed at the free edge without pain, redness, or discharge, appearing white in the separated area. What is this condition called, and how should the technician proceed?
- AParonychia; the technician must refuse service and refer to a physician
- BOnycholysis; the technician may proceed carefully, avoiding the affected area, since it is not contagious
- CTinea pedis; the technician must refuse service immediately
- DOnychomycosis; the technician must refuse service immediately
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Onycholysis; the technician may proceed carefully, avoiding the affected area, since it is not contagious
Onycholysis is the painless separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, often caused by trauma, product overexposure, or certain medications, and is not contagious. A technician may service the client cautiously, avoiding pressure or products on the separated area.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Paronychia involves infection with redness/swelling, which is not described here.
- C. Tinea pedis is athlete's foot, a fungal skin infection, not nail separation.
- D. Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection with thickening and discoloration, not simple painless separation.
Onycholysis
A painless separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, usually not contagious, often caused by trauma, chemicals, or medication.
- Not an infection and not contagious
- Technician can service cautiously, avoiding the loose area
- Different from infections like paronychia or onychomycosis
Memory trick: Onycholysis = 'nail lets loose' painlessly from the bed.