Anatomy & DisordersQuestion 67 of 100
A client asks you to dig deep underneath the free edge of her nails with a metal tool so they will be really clean. Why should you refuse?
a.Because the free edge itself contains nerve endings and will bleed
b.Because you would break the hyponychium, the skin seal under the free edge that keeps bacteria out
c.Because the matrix is located directly under the free edge
d.Because metal tools may never touch a natural nail plate
Explanation
The hyponychium is the living skin that seals the space between the free edge and the fingertip, and it is a barrier against bacteria and fungus. Digging under the free edge tears that seal and creates a direct entry point for infection, so clean gently and only at the surface. The free edge is dead keratin with no nerves, the matrix is at the base of the nail rather than the tip, and disinfected metal implements are allowed when used correctly.
Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- You remove a client's polish and notice that the natural nail looks pink through the plate. What is responsible for that pink color?
- A client asks you to cut all of her cuticle off and points to the band of living skin at the base of the nail plate. What must you do?
- Which tissue is the true cuticle, the only tissue a manicurist may gently remove?
- What is the function of the nail grooves and the nail folds (sidewalls)?
- A client has a dark stain on her natural nail close to the base and asks how long it will take to grow out completely. Based on normal nail growth, what should you tell her?
- A client lost part of her big toenail after dropping something on her foot and wants to know how long it will take for a completely new toenail to replace it. What is the best answer?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California Manicurist / Nail Technician Written Licensing Exam · How we review