Question

When providing foot care to a resident it is important for the nurse aide to

A. remove calluses and corns.
B. check the feet for skin breakdown
C. keep water cool to prevent burns
D. apply lotion, including between the toes

Answer 1

In foot care, a nurse aide should check for skin breakdown and ensure safe water temperature; removal of calluses and corns is not within their scope of practice and should be done by healthcare professionals.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing foot care to a resident, it is important for the nurse aide to check the feet for skin breakdown. This involves inspecting the feet for any signs of pressure sores, blisters, or other forms of skin damage that can lead to serious complications, especially in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation. The nurse aide should also ensure that water temperature is appropriate to prevent burns and avoid putting lotion between the toes, as excess moisture in this area can lead to fungal infections. The removal of calluses and corns should be left to a professional healthcare provider, as improper removal can result in injury or infection.

Calluses and corns are formations of thickened skin that occur due to constant friction or pressure. They are the skin's way of protecting underlying tissues from damage. In the scope of nursing care, it's imperative to maintain foot hygiene and prevent any complications by providing proper foot care as part of overall health practices.