Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 51 FOOT CARE PURPOSE: Foot care is provided to improve personal hygiene, to prevent infection, and to educate caregivers regarding principles of foot care. Individual assessment to determine allergies to soaps or lotions is indicated. If the patient is diabetic or has seriously impaired vascular supply, a physicians order is indicated. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN, HHA EQUIPMENT: Large basin, appropriate cleaning solution, towel, wash cloth, Chux pad, lotion, socks or footwear PROCEDURE: 1. Explain procedure to patient. 2. Remove socks, elastic stockings. Assess skin for signs of friction, pressure or infection. If skin has any open areas check with supervisor prior to providing care. 3. Fill basin half full with warm water and soap solution. Place feet in basin and allow to soak 10 minutes. 4. Rinse soap solution from feet with warm water. Dry thoroughly but gently with blotting action. Dry thoroughly between toes. 5. Apply lotion to feet if there are no lesions or allergies. 6. Put on clean socks, elastic stockings or other protective foot wear as ordered.. 7. Clean and store equipment. Place disposables in appropriate receptacles. 8. Wash hands. DOCUMENTATION: Document the procedure and any unusual findings on the Clinical Visit Note. Document all teaching and the patient's or caregivers response to the teaching. If further action is indicated, document follow-up/notification of Clinical Manager and/or physician. ____________________________________________________