Our daughter has had an infection in her nail. (looks like paronychia) The swelling has gone down, but her nail is separating from the nail bed. It looks like it is going to likely fall off. Does she need antibiotics at this point, or what should we do to ensure a healthy nail grows back when her nail falls off?
She requires antibiotics to control the infection. The nail is probably already dead and separated and hence falling off. She may also require surgical intervention and I strongly insist that you visit a doctor and get her evaluated. In any case, a nail will start growing in the same place after this one falls off. After assessing the present scenario the doctor would be better able to comment on how to ensure a healthy nail.