Which statement reflects proper basic nail care by a CNA?

• A. Clip nails aggressively
• B. Soak nails
• C. Ignore nails
• D. File nails and smooth edges; avoid clipping

Answer: (C)

Maintaining nails safely is about preventing injury and infection while keeping nails neat. The best approach for a CNA is to file nails and smooth the edges rather than clipping them. Filing creates a soft, rounded edge that reduces the chance of snagging, splitting, or accidentally cutting the skin, which is especially important for residents with thin skin, reduced sensation, or diabetes. Soaking nails isn’t automatically appropriate for everyone and can increase infection risk if not managed, and ignoring nails leaves a hygiene and comfort issue. Therefore, filing nails and smoothing edges while avoiding clipping is the proper basic nail care.