Question:
Do I have to remove my toenail polish beofre surgery?

I hope this isn't a "stupid" qustion, but I am just wondering if I do need to remove it before Thursday morning. I saw someones answer one time, and it mentioned removing acrylic nails, and also toenail polish in case they need to hook something up to your toe??? I don't have acrylic nails, but I do have clear nail polish on them, so I guess that has to come off too?? Thanks so much!    — Carol D. (posted on July 9, 2002)

July 9, 2002
I have acrylic nails, and I didn't have to remove them, just be sure to have only clear polishes. I had a soft pink on my tootsies, and that was just fine. They need your fingernails to be fairly clear so they can monitor your oxygen levels. Best of luck to you. If you have any questions, call your hospital, they will tell you their policy.
   — deb_wls2001

July 9, 2002
I had gone to my nail shop a few days before surgery and had my nails done and did a french manicure- so they looked natural. I then had a pedicure and had them paint my toes a pretty pink- no one gave me any flack over it.
   — Sarah A.

July 9, 2002
I had to remove my acrylic nails before my surgery. My feet were covered with stockings. They should tell you whats best when you register at the hospital. Best of luck to ya!
   — Karen M.

July 9, 2002
It was at my consult with the anesthesiologist two days before my surgery, that I was told I would hve to either my toes, or finger nails unpolished. They use to tone under your nails for some sort of guide/determination during the operation I was told. Good luck, and a speedy recovery to you!
   — Nene B.

July 9, 2002
Carol, Dearie, there ARE no stupid questions here! I read in a surgery handbook for patients just last week that the nurses need to see your nail beds to determine how your circulation is doing. Appparently the color of them this a good indicator. So you see? Not stupid! SMART!
   — CarmenLin

July 9, 2002
Hi am a vet tech and I use the nail area or your gums to determine that you are geting proper oxygen. Pink is good pale is poor and blue is something to worry about. The level of isoflurane which is the inhaled anesthic that keeps you asleep can be controlled by the respirator or ventilator which also effects your o2 circulation so it is so important that they have acess to both areas for emergency purposes. The clear nailpoilsh should not have to come off it theey can see clearly. I have never heard of anybody hooking anything to people's toes. You'll be in good hands sweetie don't worry your blessed you have made it this far.
   — sheri B.

July 9, 2002
No one said a word about my nails. My acrylic nails and my toes were all polished.
   — Jennifer A.

July 9, 2002
Be Safe . . . remove the polish on the fingernails at least. Easy to repaint and it may help keep you safe. Why take a risk that's so easy to remedy. Good Luck!!!
   — Laurie Z.