Paronychia Drainage: Nursing Assessment, Procedural Care, and Infection Prevention
Abstract
Background: Acute paronychia is a common periungual infection characterized by inflammation and abscess formation around the nail folds. It often results from disruption of the protective nail fold barrier due to trauma, nail-biting, or cosmetic practices, allowing microbial inoculation.
Aim: To outline nursing assessment, procedural care, and infection prevention strategies for effective management of acute paronychia requiring drainage.
Methods: A comprehensive review of clinical staging, anatomical considerations, procedural techniques, and nursing roles was conducted. Evidence-based guidelines and expert consensus were synthesized to define indications, contraindications, equipment, and post-procedure care.
Results: Clinical diagnosis relies on identifying pain, erythema, swelling, and fluctuance. Abscess presence is the primary indication for drainage, which may involve lateral fold elevation, eponychial access, or complete nail plate removal for subungual abscesses. Nursing responsibilities include triage, neurovascular assessment, sterile preparation, patient education, and follow-up. Effective drainage combined with culture-guided antibiotic therapy and structured aftercare reduces recurrence and complications such as felon or osteomyelitis.
Conclusion: Timely recognition of abscess formation and safe drainage are critical for preventing progression and restoring function. Nursing interventions play a pivotal role in optimizing outcomes through procedural support, infection control, and patient education.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2025 Nora Saab Alanzi, Asia Munahi Alanazi, Meteb Shaddad Hakami, Saad Ali Saleh Alrashidi, Awaji Mohammed Awaji Madkhali, Lama Ghwyzy Alraddadi, Murifah Ayed Alanazi, Areej Abdullah Alruwaili, Latifa Sayer Aldhafeeri, Saud Ahmed Alatawi, Mohammed Hussain Mohammed Alqahtani, Yazi Ashwi Salem Alonazi, Ammar Abdullah Essa Almansif
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