Providing Foot Care for ARC Testing

Equipment: Basin with water (105 degrees), soap, washcloth, towel, gloves, lotion, bath mat (or bed protector if done in bed), clean socks, non-skid footwear

Procedure:

1.) Knock on door and listen for residents response.

2.) Address resident by name and introduce yourself.

3.) Wash hands before contact with resident.

4.) Explain procedure to resident speaking slowly, clearly, and directly, maintaining face-to-face contact whenever possible.

5.) Provide for the residents privacy during procedure with curtain, screen, or door.

6.) Adjust bed to safe working height (if done in bed); lock wheels.

7.) Test water temperature and ensure it is safe and comfortable before placing residents foot in water; adjust if necessary.

8.) Place basin on bath mat/bed protector.

9.) Put on clean gloves before washing feet.

10.) Completely submerge foot in water for 3-5 minutes.

11.) Remove foot from water; wash entire foot, including between the toes, with soapy washcloth.

12.) Rinse entire foot, including between the toes.

13.) Dry entire foot, including between the toes.

14.) Put lotion in hand and warm the lotion by rubbing hands together.

15.) Massage lotion into entire foot (top and bottom), removing excess (if any) with a towel; do not put lotion between toes.

16.) Assist resident to replace sock and non-skid footwear.

17.) Support foot and ankle properly throughout procedure.

18.) Before leaving resident, place signaling device within residents reach.

19.) Return bed to appropriate level if previously adjusted.  Remove privacy measures.

20.) Empty, rinse, and wipe basin, and return to proper storage.

21.) Dispose of soiled linen in soiled linen container.

22.) Remove gloves and dispose of in wastebasket.

23.) Wash hands.

24.) Report any changes in resident to nurse.  Document procedure according to facility guidelines.