What is the approximate condition of the nail when it has separated from the nail bed?

When a nail has separated from the nail bed, this condition is referred to as onycholysis. Onycholysis involves the lifting or separation of the nail plate from the underlying nail bed, which can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infections, or underlying health issues.

Understanding this condition is crucial for nail technicians as it can affect the overall health of the nail and influence treatment options. Additionally, recognizing onycholysis is important for advising clients on proper nail care and potential risks associated with nail separation, including infections.

The other choices represent different nail and skin conditions. Onychomycosis refers specifically to a fungal infection of the nails, which does not involve separation from the nail bed but rather fungal growth under or within the nail. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, presenting symptoms like redness and swelling, while a hangnail refers to a small piece of skin that tears at the edge of a fingernail but does not imply any separation of the nail itself from the nail bed.