The evaluation of a fingernail injury starts with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with a fingernail injury may include:

• Nail avulsion:
• Partial, or total, loss of nail
• Nailbed laceration:
• A cut to the skin underneath the nail
• Growth plate injury:
• Injury to the skin where nail growth occurs
• Crushing injury:
• Usually results in a fracture to the bone in the fingertip and a collection of blood under the fingernail

Tests that may be used to evaluate fingernail injuries include:

• Hand and finger x-rays