Safe Nail Clippers for Finger Flesh Injury Prevention

Abstract

As people age, their toenails become thick and hard, making it difficult to trim them. Diabetic patients are prone to nerve and vascular damage due to high blood sugar, affecting blood circulation and sensation in the peripheral limbs. We developed a safety nail clipper designed specifically for the elderly and diabetic patients for healthcare. Trimming nails is a regular activity, and existing nail clipper designs lack warning mechanisms, increasing the risk of skin damage for diabetic patients during nail trimming. The elderly or diabetic patients often have poor vision in trimming their nails, which may lead to cutting too deep and causing paronychia or wounds. Tissue necrosis, suppuration, and infection may occur, potentially resulting in amputation. Therefore, based on the understanding of the difference in conductivity between the nail and skin and using LED indicators, we provided a protective mechanism for diabetic patients with abnormal peripheral limb sensation by using a nail clipper. When it touched the skin, the LED light illuminated to avoid cutting too deep and protect the nail bed.