Nervous about this Skill-elastic stocking???

Published

Specializes in LTC/Rehab.

Hi. I am the final stage of my CNA Course:clinicals. I start clinicals this monday to wednesday and I have a mock exam the sunday after clinicals. I have a big problem with putting on the elastic stocking properly on the mannequin without having a wrinkles etc., :mad:

You would think its so easy to put on a sock but to me its really hard because I cant get around the heel of the mannequin's foot...furthermore, sometimes the top of the sock doesn't look right on the top.:uhoh3:

*sigh*. I would hate to lose over this one skill. I need to get certified ASAP.

I wanted to practice at home, but I cant find any compression stockings at the grocery store.... Does anyone know where to find one.

Thanks in advance. I appreciate it.:redpinkhe

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU, ER, Hemodialysis.

Did you check at your local drug store? You should be able to find some there. If not, do a search on the internet. It will be there.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think I've seen TED hose sold at walmart before. If you get a pair it wont take much practice before you get them on with no problem.

I usually reach inside from the top of the sock and grab just above where the heel goes pull it inside out up to this point, put the sock on just past the heel as tight and smooth as I can, then grab the top of the inside out end and pull it right up to the knee. Works for me anyway, your mileage may vary.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

Turn the stocking inside out.Partially turn the toes in and put on the foot.Pull the stocking back over the leg while you stand beside the patient facing their feet so you are pulling the stocking towards you.It takes practice.Good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

If you are required to apply TED hose during the skills exam and you are not able to get all the wrinkles out, all you need to do is say 'I am now smoothing out the stocking and making sure it is wrinkle-free'.......so that the evaluator knows that you know the proper procedure. If you say out loud how to do it but it doesn't look perfect on the mannequin you won't fail.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC/Rehab.

Thank you so much. Walmart has them but they were closed toe and resemble the compression hose I use for myself... i just happened to meet a sales associate who is passed the CNA exam who told me just to use trouser socks and/or use the inside out method. That suggestion saved me $20.

I tried to put on my compression hose on my mom and myself with the inside out method. After two errors it worked! I am so relieved.

Now I can stop worrying that I cant put on a "sock"...lol.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion