Personal Care and Support – Foot Care SECTION: 18.15

Strength of Evidence Level: 3 __RN__LPN/LVN__HHA

PURPOSE:

To prevent deformities of the feet, prevent infection, maintain comfort and cleanliness, maintain optimal peripheral circulation and to soften skin and nails.

CONSIDERATIONS:

1. Possible injuries to the feet may result from:

a. Repeated trauma (bumping, being stepped on, having objects dropped on them).

b. Ill-fitting shoes and stockings.

c. Poor circulation.

d. Use of tight garter or improperly applied anti-embolytic stockings.

2. Patients with diabetes require special foot care. Instructions must be obtained from the nurse. DO NOT soak patient’s feet if the patient has a diagnosis of diabetes or circulatory issues.

EQUIPMENT:

Towel

Basin or tub with warm water

Mild soap

Lotion or powder (optional)

Nail clippers (optional)

Protective cover, i.e., plastic sheet or newspaper

Gloves

Emery board/nail file

Orangewood stick

PROCEDURE:

1. Adhere to Standard Precautions.

2. Review and follow nurse's instructions.

3. Assemble equipment and explain procedure to patient.

4. Position patient comfortably in chair or bed.

5. Cover floor or bed linens with protective covering. Inspect the feet for any changes and report. Patients may not be able to notice changes in their feet.

6. Fill basin or tub with sufficient warm water to cover feet. Check the water temperature and have the patient test to comfort level. Place feet in basin or tub.

7. Wash feet gently with soap.

8. Soak feet 5 to 10 minutes changing water or adding warm water as necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature.

9. Remove basin leaving protective covering in place. Dry feet thoroughly with towel giving special attention to areas between toes. Pat feet with towel rather than rubbing to avoid breaking skin.

10. Clean under nails using orangewood. File with emery board or nail file straight across no shorter than tips of toes, using care. DO NOT clip or cut nails unless instructed to do so by the nurse.

11. Apply lotion and/or dust lightly with powder, if patient requests.

12. Clean and put away equipment.

13. Discard soiled supplies in appropriate containers.

AFTER CARE:

1.  Document in patient's record:

a. Patient's response to procedure.

b. Foot care provided.

c. Condition of skin and nails.

d.  Report any changes in patient's condition to supervisor.

REFERENCE:

leahy, W., Fuzy, J., & Graf, J. (1999). Providing home care: A textbook for home care aides. (3rd ed.). Albuquerque, NM: Hartman Publishing, Inc.