Infection transmission: The risks associated with jewellery and nail art

Some of the ways we express our identity are through our fashion choices. While individuality is to be celebrated, in a clinical environment consideration should be given to colleagues, patients and clients, as these choices may directly or indirectly affect infection control. The policy of ‘bare below the elbows’ was introduced in the NHS to safeguard healthcare workers and their patients, and evidence also supports this concept in the veterinary environment. However, it is important to extend this approach to consider jewellery, as well as nail art, and the infection risks they could harbour. It is vital that veterinary educators impress the significance of all elements of infection control on students, and for practices to develop, maintain and uphold robust infection control policies. Veterinary professionals themselves should also consider the evidence, while being mindful of areas that have a lack of evidence, when deciding how to present themselves. Most importantly, all veterinary professionals need to conduct high standards of hand hygiene at appropriate intervals, and ensure that any jewellery or nail art does not hamper the effectiveness of infection control. This article considers the risks associated with nail varnish/art, and the wearing of accessories and jewellery such as rings, earrings, necklaces and watches. It discusses the evidence in this area, as well as whether wearing PPE gloves mitigates the risks. It concludes with recommendations for practices.