This study provides statistically significant data that demonstrate that chipped fingernail polish or fingernail polish worn longer than four days fosters increased numbers of bacteria on the fingernails of OR nurses after surgical hand scrubs. There were no significant correlations between fingernail length and the numbers of bacterial colonies on the fingernails of the study groups tested after performing a standard surgical hand scrub. A convenience sample 102 perioperative nurses with either freshly polished fingernails; chipped fingernail polish; or natural, polish‐free fingernails participated. The data suggest OR nurses can wear fresh fingernail polish on healthy fingernails without risking increased bacterial counts. AORN J 60 (NOV 1994) 796–805.