Why not nails?

[swkbmckay]

I am in my first semester ADN school. This may seem like a really rediculous question but here goes - I can't seem to get a definitive answer from my instructor.

We were instructed that we were never to trim or file toenails or fingernails.

I understand about the risk of Diabetes and ingrown nails; I understand there is a special technique, a fungus can cause complications, etc. But I can't disassociate this risk from ALL the risks we will be taking everyday - meds, IVs, wound dressings, allergies, etc.

I have been in healthcare as an echo/cardiotech for about 18 years and it never occurred to me that I never saw a nurse trimming nails!! Saw lots but not that!

I hope some of you experienced nurses can help.

Thanks, Steph:)

[hoolahan, ASN, RN]

Sorry, please indulge me in my apologies to Lois, she is true to her word, I got info about her biz today, and she is something else! A true dynamo and a beautiful person, both to her patients and her peers. Thanks for all your dedicated service Lois!!

[nurseleigh]

On the flip side of this, I am in my first semester for LPN and we were taught to ALWAYS assess the nails and trim when needed UNLESS you know there is a reason not to. But to always, as students, check with the nursing staff to see if you can trim nails on your patient.

Traci

[LoisJean]

Good for you, Traci!

And to you, Carole....tsk,tsk, tsk; to each their own.

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

HAve toenail clippers and nail files. Will travel. LOL

WHEN did this care become obsolete for nurses????????????????

BASIC training in my LPN program in 1977......maybe thats why it's one of my pet peeves....along with dirty fuzzy navels and ear wax!

Been trimin nails for last 25 years: we did it as nursing aides in SNF in 1974 too, but not on diabetics or those with PVD---Podiatrist visited. Great podiatrists in SE PA, probably cause 2 schools here and BIG house call business. If necrotic toes, thick fungal nails, excessive corns, calluses I defer to them.

If no nail brush in the home, I ask for clean toothbrush. Carry nail brush and tooth brush from dollar store along with liquid hand soap in my bag. No basin? Fill gallon plastic bag if patient can sit and feet fit or kitchen trash bag with warm sudsy water....even used doubled grocery bags on top of towel lightly tied to bedbound patients ankles for a good soak, then GENTLY cleanse. Encourage lotion bottom top (not between toes).Have found that dollar store coca butter lotion good for most people, especially dark skined individuals. Diabetics and those with PVD, prone to cellulitis have seen RX Lachydrin work wonders.

Lois Jean, would love to get your info too.

My HH agency uses monofilament for all diabetic screenings for Cor Solutions diabetic patients along with Hgb A1C lab draw.

[Chuckie]

Why

[TracyB,RN, RN]

My feet love this thread:) And a BIG bravo to the Lois, the "footlady".