DOI : https :// doi . org / 10.56496 / XMOO5570

Sarah Vivian , RVN , MRes , BSc ( Hons ), DET SFHEA

ENVELOPE sarah . vivian @ bristol . ac . uk

Sarah is an RVN with interests in the education and mental health support of veterinary professionals . Her current focus is on the professional identity of veterinary nurses . She is a lecturer at the University of Bristol .

ABSTRACT 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 .

Keywords jewellery , nail art , infection , control , transmission , professional conduct , veterinary

24 Veterinary Nursing Journal