Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

What is a subungual hematoma?

1. Fracture of the nail bed

2. Infection under the nail

3. Bleeding/bruising under the nail

4. Cyst formation under the nail

The correct answer is: Bleeding/bruising under the nail

A subungual hematoma refers specifically to the accumulation of blood between the nail bed and the nail plate, which occurs typically after trauma to the fingertip or toe. This condition manifests as a localized bruise that can cause significant pain and discomfort due to the pressure the pooled blood exerts beneath the nail. In the context of the provided options, this choice accurately describes the phenomenon characterized by bleeding or bruising under the nail. The condition often requires drainage to relieve pain and prevent complications if left untreated. The other options describe different conditions that do not accurately define a subungual hematoma. For example, a fracture of the nail bed involves a break in the underlying bone or tissue, while an infection under the nail refers to a pathological condition that may present with discharge and inflammation. Cyst formation suggests a benign growth or fluid accumulation, which is also distinct from the acute condition of a hematoma. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the nature of a subungual hematoma and differentiates it from other possible nail-related issues.