HESI Health Assessment Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

Clubbing of the fingernails is characterized by an angle of the nail base of 180 degrees or greater. This condition typically arises as a response to chronic hypoxia or other underlying health issues, leading to changes in the shape and appearance of the nails.

When clubbing occurs, the normal angle between the nail and the nail bed, which is typically around 160 degrees, increases significantly. A reading of 180 degrees or greater indicates this dramatic change, which might manifest as enlargement of the fingertips and changes in the contour of the nails.

The physical changes associated with clubbing can be indicative of various medical conditions, such as respiratory diseases (like cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), certain heart diseases, and other systemic conditions. Understanding this characteristic helps healthcare providers assess and identify potential underlying health issues through a simple physical examination of the nails.