Microorganisms can accumulate under the fingernails. Logically, the longer the nails, the greater the possibility for accumulation of microorganisms. Fingernails should be short enough for the DHCP to clean under and around the fingernails.
Fingernails can also be a source of injury to the patient's tissues and glove failure. Long nails, whether natural or artificial, make donning of gloves more difficult and can cause the gloes to tear. Nail polish, particularly if they are chipped, can harbor additional bacteria.