The SERDC Foot Care program provides basic foot care services for community members who are seen as high risk for infections and amputations of the lower limbs. The program is designed to decrease the infection and amputation rate and to ensure optimal health for community members.
Basic Foot Care in the SERDC communities is delivered by a Foot Care Nurse. Basic Foot Care includes as a minimum the following:
- Basic Foot and Lower Limb Assessment
- Basic Wound Assessment
- Basic Footwear Assessment/Examination
- Corn and Callus Reduction
- Nail Care
- Client Education and Health Promotion (Foot Related)
- Referrals to Footwear Fittings
- Referrals to Medical Specialists
Who Should Come for Foot Care?
* Those with diabetes
* Elders
* Adult and Children with disabilities
* Clients with ulcers or infections will be seen as top priority.
What Happens During Your Foot Care Appointment? (takes 45 mins-1 hour)
* The nurse will review the consent form with you and have you sign it
* Your complete medical history is reviewed
* Your vital signs are taken, when necessary
* Your medications are reviewed-bring a list
* Feet and legs are examined and foot care is provided, if needed.
Referrals to Podiatry
* When the nurse completes a foot assessment, if the is a medical need to be referred to a Podiatrist, the nurse will make the referral and help set up the appointment.
* Clients are responsible to pay their own cost for podiatry service, as this is not covered by the Foot Care Program.
Your Rights and Responsibilities:
As a Foot Care client, you have the right to:
* Respect and Dignity
* Privacy
* Health, Safety and Well-Being
* Information and Freedom of Expression
* Decline services
Patient Responsibilities:
* Be respectful of the nurse and health staff
* Participate as much as you can with the nurse in your treatment
Tips to Take Care of Your Feet:
* Check your feet every day for cuts, cracks, bruised, blisters, sores, infections or unusual markings
* Use a mirror to see the bottom of your feet if you cannot lift them up
* Check the colour of your legs and feet, seek help if there is swelling, warmth or redness
* Wash and dry your feet every day, especially between toes
* Apply lotion every day to your heels and soles
* Change your socks every day
* Trim your nails straight across or see the foot care nurse if you are not able
* Clean a cut or scratch with mild soap and water and cover with a dry dressing
* See your foot care nurse if you have concerns
Do Not:
* Cut your own corns or calluses
* Treat your own ingrown toenails or slivers with a razor or scissors
* Walk barefoot inside or outside
* Soak your feet
STAFF
Vacant, Foot Care Nurse - Black River, Buffalo Point
Divina Del Rosario, Foot Care Nurse - Little Grand Rapids
Lynn Wiebe, Foot Care Nurse - Hollow Water
Norisa Rumbaoa, Foot Care Nurse - Brokenhead
Angie Meisner, Foot Care Nurse - Bloodvein