Foot Care

Foot care maintains skin integrity, promotes circulation, and prevents infection, especially critical for residents with diabetes.

17 steps·5 evaluator checkpoints·5 common mistakes

1Step-by-Step Procedure

1
Gather equipment: basin of warm water, soap, washcloth, towel, nail file/emery board, lotion (not between toes), gloves.
2
Wash hands and put on gloves.
3
Identify the resident and explain the procedure.
4
Test the water temperature — approximately 100–105°F (37–40°C). Use a thermometer if available.
5
Assist the resident to a comfortable seated position with legs able to reach the basin.
6
Place the basin on a waterproof pad; assist the resident to place their feet in the water.
7
Soak the feet for approximately 5–10 minutes unless contraindicated.
8
Wash each foot and between all toes with soap and washcloth.
9
Rinse thoroughly.
10
Remove one foot at a time from the basin and dry it completely, paying particular attention to the spaces between the toes (moisture between toes promotes fungal infection).
11
Inspect the feet and toes for redness, swelling, skin breakdown, blisters, or wounds.
12
Use an emery board to smooth any rough edges of the nails — do not cut nails unless specifically authorized; report nail cutting needs to the nurse.
13
Apply lotion to the tops and soles of the feet; massage gently. Do not apply lotion between the toes.
14
Assist with non-slip socks or footwear after care is complete.
15
Empty, clean, and store the basin.
16
Remove gloves and wash hands.
17
Document care and any skin findings.

✓
Water temperature is tested before the resident's feet are placed in the basin.
✓
Feet and between toes are washed and dried thoroughly.
✓
Lotion is applied to tops and soles but NOT between the toes.
✓
Skin inspection is performed; abnormalities are noted.
✓
Nail cutting is not performed; only filing with an emery board is within CNA scope.

⚠
Applying lotion between the toes — this causes maceration and fungal infections.
⚠
Not testing water temperature — particularly dangerous for diabetic residents with reduced sensation.
⚠
Cutting toenails — this is outside CNA scope of practice; report need to nurse.
⚠
Not drying between the toes thoroughly after washing.
⚠
Forgetting to inspect the feet for skin breakdown, especially on the heels and between toes.

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Test water temp first — diabetic residents may not feel burns.
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Dry between every toe — moisture there causes infections.
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Lotion on top and sole only; never between toes.
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You file nails (emery board only) but do not cut them — state this to the evaluator if asked.

Also study the written exam topics

Physical Care Skills makes up 45% of the written exam — the same procedures you just reviewed will appear as multiple-choice questions.

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