5.14 Skills Checklist: Foot Care
- Gather Supplies: Basin, warm water, soap, lotion, two washcloths, one towel, barrier, gloves, and linen bag or hamper
- Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:
- Knock on the resident’s door.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
- Provide for privacy.
- Explain the procedure to the resident.
- Procedure Steps:
- Put on gloves.
- Fill a foot basin with warm water and place it on a flat surface with a barrier underneath. Have the resident check the water temperature by placing their hand in the basin or putting a wet washcloth on the back of their hand.
- Remove their socks.
- Immerse their feet in warm water for 5 to 20 minutes.
- Use water and a soapy washcloth.
- Wash each foot and between the toes.
- Rinse the entire foot with the wet washcloth, including between the toes.
- Dry the foot thoroughly, including between the toes.
- Ask the resident if they would like lotion. If applying lotion, wear gloves.
- Massage the lotion over the foot but avoid applying any lotion between the toes.
- Wipe off any excess lotion with a dry towel.
- Replace the socks or preferred footwear.
- While wearing gloves, empty the equipment.
- Rinse the equipment.
- Dry the basin.
- Return the equipment to storage.
- Dispose of soiled linen in a designated laundry hamper.
- Remove the gloves, turning them inside out.
- Post-Procedure Steps:
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Check for resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
- Ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
- Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
- Open the door and privacy curtain.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document and report any skin or nail issues or changes noted with the resident.
View a YouTube video[1] of an instructor demonstrating foot care:
- Chippewa Valley Technical College. (2022, December 3). Foot Care. [Video]. YouTube. Video licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://youtu.be/gQekzAPHKGY ↵
