How To Give Foot Care

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it? Giving foot care means washing and checking your feet or the feet of another person every day. Foot care is important to prevent feet problems. Problems with your feet can be a sign of health problems like arthritis, diabetes or poor circulation (blood flow). Achy and tired feet can cause discomfort and stress.

How is foot care given?

• Wash the feet daily. Feet can be washed in the tub or shower if the person can walk.
  
  
• If the person cannot get out of bed, gather the following items and put them within easy reach.
  
  
  • Warm water in a large basin. Use your wrist to test the temperature of the water. Be sure it is not too hot or too cold.
    
    
  • Gloves.
    
    
  • Soap.
    
    
  • Towels.
    
    
  • Wash cloth.
    
    
  • Pillow.
    
    
  • Waterproof pad.
    
    
  • Lotion.
    
    
  • An orangewood stick. This is a small wooden stick used to clean under fingernails and toenails. An orangewood stick comes with many nail kits or you can get one at most drug stores.
  
  
• Getting the person ready:
  
  
  • Put the waterproof pad under the person's feet to protect the bed from getting wet.
    
    
  • Place a pillow under the knees.
    
    
  • Cover the person with a blanket or sheet.
    
    
  • Put the basin with the warm water on the pad.
    
    
  • Wear gloves if there are sores on the feet.
  
  
• Washing the feet:
  
  
  • Put the feet in the basin with warm water.
    
    
  • Use mild soap and a washcloth to wash the feet.
    
    
  • Wash between the toes.
    
    
  • Rinse the soap with warm water. Do not use antibacterial (ant-e-bak-TEER-e-ull ) soap on the feet. These soaps may be too strong and cause skin dryness and irritation.
  
  
• Drying the feet:
  
  
  • Remove the feet from the basin.
    
    
  • Gently dry top and bottom of the feet and between the toes.
    
    
  • Tell the caregiver if the toenails need to be cut. This may need to be done by a person trained in foot care.
    
    
  • Gently rub lotion on the feet. Do not put lotion between the toes.
  
  
• Look for changes:
  
  
  • Look for any changes in skin color. Look for redness, tenderness, or sores on the feet.
    
    
  • Look at the tops and bottoms of the feet, between the toes, and around the toenails.
    
    
  • Check for cold or swollen feet, burning or tingling, numbness, and slow healing of sores.
    
    
  • Check your feet after you walk or exercise.

When should a caregiver be called? Call a caregiver if there are new sores or redness, or you have concerns about the feet.

What should be done after giving foot care? Clean and put away all items used.

What kind of footwear should be chosen?

• It is important to choose the correct size of shoes. Have your feet measured before buying shoes, to be sure you are getting the correct size. One foot may be larger than the other foot. Always buy shoes to fit the larger foot. The shoes should be long enough so there is no pressure on your toes. Do not wear shoes with pointed toes or high heels. These shoes will put too much pressure on your toes.
  
  
• Athletic shoes are good to wear because they support your feet. Many of these shoes are made of fabrics that allow air in your shoe.
  
  
• Plastic or vinyl shoes don't stretch or allow air in your shoe. This type of shoe may make your feet sweat and cause you discomfort.
  
  
• Make sure new shoes are comfortable from the start. Do not wear your new shoes for long periods of time. Be sure to break them in slowly by wearing them for short periods of time, and then removing them.
  
  
• Socks should fit well with no wrinkles or holes. Wear clean, dry socks everyday. Don't wear socks or stockings with elastic tops.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about caring for your feet. You can then discuss your treatment and care options with your health caregivers. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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