What is a stainless steel implement that can shorten the free edge of the nail quickly and efficiently?

• A. Nail file
• B. Nail clipper
• C. Cuticle pusher
• D. Orangewood stick

Answer: (B)

Shortening the free edge of the nail is done most efficiently with a nail clipper. This stainless steel tool is designed to make a clean, rapid cut across the nail in one motion, which is ideal for trimming excess length quickly. A nail file is useful for shaping and smoothing after clipping, but it works more slowly and isn’t as effective for removing noticeable length in a single action. A cuticle pusher is meant for manipulating the cuticle, not for trimming the nail, and an orangewood stick is used for pushing back cuticles or cleaning under the nail, not for shortening it. Using the clipper gives a precise, quick reduction of length; follow up with gentle filing to smooth any rough edges and clip straight across to prevent splitting.