NIC Nail Technician Written ExamNail Technology ProceduresMedium
A client requests a pedicure. During the foot analysis, the technician observes a warm, red, swollen area around the nail folds of the big toe, accompanied by some pus. This condition is most likely:
- ATinea Unguium
- BPterygium
- CParonychia
- DOnycholysis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Paronychia
Paronychia is an infection of the tissue folds surrounding the nail, characterized by inflammation, swelling, redness, and often pus. Service should be refused and medical referral recommended.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tinea unguium (Onychomycosis) is a fungal infection of the nail plate itself, causing discoloration and thickening, not usually acute inflammation of the folds with pus.
- B. Pterygium is the forward growth of the eponychium over the nail plate, not an infection.
- D. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, not typically associated with pus or inflammation of the surrounding skin.
Paronychia
An inflammation or infection of the skin folds around the nail plate, often caused by bacteria or fungi.
- Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes pus.
- Can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (persisting).
- Nail technicians should not perform services on infected areas and refer the client to a physician.
Memory trick: Red, swollen, pus? Paronychia, no service, adjust!