When it comes to our health, it's easy to focus on the big picture and overlook the small details. However, our feet are a vital part of our overall well-being, and they deserve just as much attention as any other part of our body.
That's where a foot care nurse comes in.
At HealthWalks, our Foot Care Nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) who has sought additional education to assess and treat foot and nail issues, with the goal of improving foot health.
Understanding the Importance of Foot Care: What does a Foot Care Nurse do?
Typically, a Foot Care Nurse has additional education in the anatomy and physiology of the foot and lower leg, as well as various foot issues and concerns such as:
Heel cracks
Callouses
Corns
Ingrown toenails
Warts
Foot care nursing is an integral part of the nursing care process and goes beyond just trimming nails or applying moisturizer. Foot care includes:
Cleaning
Debriding
Reducing thickened or ingrown nails
It also includes thoughtful assessment and critical thinking.
Safe and Non-Invasive Care: How does a Foot Care Nurse provide care?
All foot care provided is done CONSERVATIVELY and is NON-INVASIVE. It is performed in a clean, disinfected setting and sterile instruments to reduce the chance of injury and infection to the client, especially in those clients considered at “high risk.”
Foot Care for Everyone: Who can benefit from a Foot Care Nurse?
Foot care provided by a Foot Care Nurse is for EVERYONE, from children to older adults. It is beneficial for anyone who has difficulty trimming their own nails, has poor eyesight, a decrease in mobility, has arthritis, diabetes, neuropathy, circulation issues, foot or lower leg swelling, foot pain or even foot/nail changes.
Promoting Health and Wellness: What other services does a Foot Care Nurse provide?
A foot care nurse will also help promote the health of their clients, teaching clients about footwear, self-care at home, safety at home as well as providing helpful tools to aid their clients. With every interaction, the foot care nurse is assessing the client throughout all care provided.
Most Foot Care Nurses, Registered Nurse (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide care and work with clients because they are kind, caring, compassionate people who want to help their clients by using their knowledge skills and critical thinking.
Remember: Take Care of Your Feet!
Our health does not stop at our ankles, treat your feet well and they will treat you well too! A Foot Care Nurse can help you achieve optimal foot health and well-being. If you have any concerns about your feet or are experiencing pain or discomfort, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with a Foot Care Nurse today.