Foot Care

Hi there and welcome to our career training series. I’m Nick and I’m one of the team members here at myCNAjobs.

Today’s video is about proper foot care for your patients. We’ll go through a step by step guide on what to do. Start by gathering your supplies. You’ll need a basin or wash tub, a pair of gloves, soap, lotion, two washcloths, and two towels.

1. Enter your patient’s room or area and introduce yourself. Explain the procedure to them clearly. After you get their permission to begin, you can pull their privacy curtain or close the door if the space permits.
2. Pull back any bedding covering the patient’s leg and place one towel underneath the foot and calf of your patient. Next, fill the basin with warm water. Be sure the water temperature is comfortable, and have the patient feel the water before you begin to ensure their comfort.
3. Put on your gloves and put the basin on top of the towel. Place your patient’s foot inside the basin. Be sure they are in a comfortable position before continuing. It’s important to support the foot and ankle of your patient during the procedure.
4. Allow the foot to soak for 5-10 minutes before you begin to wash. After 5-10 minutes of soaking, apply soap to a wet washcloth. Wash the entire foot, being sure to support the foot and ankle of your patient. Be sure to was the top and bottom of the foot and pay special attention to washing between the toes.
5. Using your second wet washcloth, wash the soap off from all surfaces of your patient’s foot. Be sure to remove all soap from between the toes. Remove the basin and place it on your second towel. Use the first towel to completely dry the foot of your patient, making sure to get all water between the toes - this part can be tricky!
6. Take the lotion and apply it to your patient’s foot. Put lotion on the top and bottom of their foot, but NOT between their toes.
7. Next, cover your patient back up with any bedding there may be and take the basin to the sink. Make sure to dump, rinse, and dry the basin thoroughly. Place the basin, towels, and washcloth in the appropriate areas. This may be a used linen bin or designated area of the room depending on where you’re providing care. Remove your gloves and properly dispose of them as well.
8. Finally, wash your hands and make sure your patient is comfortable before you leave. Make sure their blankets and bedding are situated how they like, and their bed is in the proper position.

That’s all for this lesson. If you’re looking for a CNA job, you can find positions near you at www.myCNAjobs.com. Or, give us a call to talk to a recruiter directly at 312-275-3959.