Foot Care

oot Care 

Purpose: 

To promote resident comfort and prevent skin breakdown and/or infection through proper foot care. 

Policy: 

• Residents’ feet are inspected daily by the CNA during routine care and/or weekly as part of the weekly body audit. 

• Residents’ feet should be inspected for blisters, abrasions, redness, evidence of pressure or injury, and nail abnormalities. 

• Residents with complaints of foot pain will be assessed by a nurse and orders obtained as needed. 

• Residents who are diabetic and/or have vascular disease should have their toenails cut by a podiatrist. 

Procedure: 

1. Inspection: 

• CNAs will inspect residents' feet daily during routine care and weekly as part of the body audit. 

• Look for blisters, abrasions, redness, evidence of pressure or injury, and nail abnormalities. 

2. Reporting: 

• CNAs will report any findings to the nurse immediately. 

3. Footwear: 

• Encourage residents to wear well-fitting footwear when out of bed to prevent foot injuries and pressure areas. 

4. Routine Hygiene: 

• Assist residents with washing and drying their feet as part of their routine hygiene. 

• Pay special attention to drying between the toes to prevent fungal infections. 

5. Assessment and Documentation: 

• A nurse will assess residents who complain of foot pain and obtain orders as needed. 

• Document findings in the nurse’s notes when indicated. 

• Ensure that diabetic residents and those with vascular disease have their toenails cut by a podiatrist as per the physician’s orders. 

Compliance and Documentation: 

• Adhere to CMS guidelines and Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• Document the foot care provided, including the resident’s response and any observations, in their medical record. 

• Note any abnormalities or difficulties encountered during the foot care routine. 

• Regularly review and update foot care techniques according to the latest clinical best practices and regulatory standards. 

• Provide training to staff on proper foot care procedures to ensure resident safety and comfort. 

• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy and address any gaps in practice or documentation. 

References: 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). State Operations Manual (SOM), Appendix PP - Guidance to Surveyors for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• CMS Requirements of Participation for Nursing Homes.