NIC Nail Technician Written ExamNail Technology ProceduresHard
A client complains of green-yellow spots appearing on her artificial nails, which she suspects are a fungal infection. Upon inspection, the spots appear to be localized and superficial, not deep within the nail plate. What is the most likely cause of this discoloration, and what is the appropriate action for the technician?
- AOnychomycosis (fungal infection); remove enhancement, refer to physician.
- BPseudomonas Bacterial Infection; remove the enhancement and advise medical consultation.
- CStaining from products; buff off and monitor.
- DBruising from trauma; no action needed, will grow out.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Pseudomonas Bacterial Infection; remove the enhancement and advise medical consultation.
Green-yellow spots on artificial nails, especially superficial and localized, are most commonly 'greenies' caused by Pseudomonas bacterial infection, not fungus. The appropriate action is to remove the enhancement and advise the client to seek medical consultation as it requires treatment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onychomycosis (fungus) typically presents differently, often with thickening, crumbling, and deeper discoloration, and also requires medical referral.
- C. Product staining is possible but less likely to be green-yellow and is usually easily removed; the 'spot' nature points to infection.
- D. Bruising is usually purplish-black and results from trauma, not a green-yellow discoloration.
Pseudomonas (Greenies)
A common bacterial infection under nail enhancements caused by moisture entrapment, resulting in green-yellow discoloration, requiring removal of the enhancement and medical attention.
- Caused by bacteria, not fungus.
- Results from moisture trapped between nail and enhancement.
- Requires removal of enhancement and medical consultation.
Memory trick: Green spot, bacteria plot, off with the nail, doctor's shot.