Pre-Surgery Tip: Your Nail Polish Could Affect Your Health

Pre-Surgery Prep: The Unexpected Importance of Nail Polish Color Millions undergo surgery annually. While many focus on larger preparations, a plastic surgeon, Dr. Alexis Parcells, highlights a lesser-known detail: nail polish color. In a recent video, Dr. Parcells explains that bright or dark nail polish can interfere with pulse oximeters, devices that measure blood oxygen saturation. These readings are crucial for anesthesiologists monitoring patients during surgery. "Really bright colors and really dark colors will interfere with the pulse oximeter," Dr. Parcells explains in her video. She recommends patients opt for clear or pastel shades to ensure accurate readings. This seemingly small detail can have significant implications for patient safety and the smooth conduct of the procedure. Dr. Parcells's advice is a simple yet crucial addition to pre-surgical checklists, emphasizing the importance of even seemingly minor details in ensuring optimal patient care. This practical tip underscores the collaborative nature of surgical care, encouraging open communication between patients and their medical teams.