Hi Julia,
I, too was very concerned about my nails. Sooooo, after lots of reading I:
1. Kept my fingernails on frozen peas during chemo infusions.
2. Got regular manicures and pedicures with my regular "lady" who used my tools.
3. She always used a nail strengther as the base coat.
I NEVER HAD ONE loose nail or discolored nail. It was very important to me to have nice nails.... I give piano lessons, and I didn't want to "gross" out my 6 students.....
Good luck!