Which action is the third step in providing fingernail care on one hand?

• A. Have client check water temperature
• B. Put on gloves
• C. Put fingernails in water
• D. Clean under fingernail with a stick, wiping the stick after each nail

Answer: (C)

Soaking the nails in warm water is done after the initial safety and prep steps to make the task easier and more comfortable. By placing the nails in warm water, you soften both the nails and the surrounding cuticles, which loosens dirt and debris and reduces the chance of snagging or injuring the skin during cleaning. This preparation sets up the next steps, such as cleaning under the nails with a stick, to be performed smoothly and safely. If you were to clean under the nails before soaking, debris would be harder to remove and the nails and skin would be less pliable, increasing discomfort and the potential for injury. So, the soaking step comes as the third action in fingernail care.