Editor’s note: Sometimes we get questions from readers in need that aren’t exactly technical questions, but they’re not typical business questions, either. For those nail techs dealing with difficult issues involving self-esteem, office politics, work relationships, and the like, we aim to offer guidance and perspective.
For this month’s On the Couch, we turn to Shari Finger, owner of Finger’s Nail Studio in W. Dundee, Ill. A former Nail Tech of the Year and salon of the Year winner, Finger is a frequent contributor to NAILS.
What If
What are my responsibilities if a client acquires a nail infection after I have performed a nail service on her?
Dear Liable: Your responsibility to that client begins before her first service. Every customer should be educated on how and why fungal or bacterial infections occur on her first visit. In my salon we give each new customer an information sheet called “Finger Tip” that explains everything from a maintenance schedule to their responsibility at the first sign of a lift or a crack in an enhancement. One of the most common reasons for “greenies” (pseudomonas bacteria) is clients not returning faithfully every two weeks. Any time a customer tries to book a fill more than two weeks away, I tell them that they are putting themselves at risk for an infection.
If your question refers to something other than “greenies,” such as a true fungal infection, pain, separation of the natural nail or anything else unusual, you need to make your client understand that your are not a doctor and recommend in the strongest possible terms that she visit one. The client also needs to understand that you can’t service her again until a doctor gives her a clean bill of health. Adding information about your sanitation procedures will let the client know that the contamination most likely didn’t happen on your watch.
Regardless of who is at fault, it is your responsibility to act in the best interest of your customer. If you always put the client’s health and safety first you will have fewer problems in the end.
Read this article on developing and using your own client cards.
Download these already-created client handouts to use with your clients, prepared for your free use by NAILS:.
Caring for Your Nail Enhancements at Home