Foot care from a Registered Nurse is very different than the services one would receive from a traditional salon for a pedicure. A nursing visit includes:

• Foot Assessment - checking blood flow to the lower legs and feet, changes to sensation in the feet and toes, areas of skin breakdown, signs of infection, etc. 

• Trim and Sand Nails - addressing thicker fungal nails or ingrown nails when present.

• Sand Calluses and Corns - ensuring skin is smooth and comfortable. 

• Lotion Application - using gentle and/or exfoliating lotion to ensure well hydrated and soft skin (a relaxing foot rub is included!)

• Client and Family Education - discussion about appropriate footwear, prevention of skin breakdown and infection, use of supports and aids.

• Foot Soaking - This is not recommended for individuals with active fungal infections, diabetic neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, or skin sensitivities. Moisture can increase the risk of infection and skin breakdown. It is also much more effective to sand down calluses and thick nails when the area is dry. As a result, foot soaks are not included in my services. 

• Polish Application - Due to changes in aging nails (less collagen leading to more brittle, cracked nails), older adults can be at higher risk of developing nail fungus. Application of nail polish can further contribute to existing fungal infections in the nails as it thrives in a dark, moist environment. As a result, nail polish application is not included in my services. 

• Addressing Concerns Outside Scope - My role as a foot care nurse is to help ensure my client's feet are clean, comfortable, and safe! If I feel that a client needs assistance that is beyond my scope of practice as a registered nurse, I will do what I am able to if appropriate and then make recommendations to seek additional medical help.