Nurses play an important role in prevention of foot injury. The elderly population is at
particular risk for foot injury due to possible visual impairment, mobility limitations that inhibit
inspection of feet, and potential for loss of protective sensation. Routine foot and nail screening
and education can help prevent injury.
On September 23, 2015, Melissa Ayer MS, RN, CRRN, CWOCN, CFCN and Katie Benton
RN, BS, CWOCN, CFCN (Skin Care Coordinators at Beverly Hospital, a member of Lahey Health,)
participated in the Fall Prevention Education Fair at the Counsel on Aging/Rose Baker Senior
Center in Gloucester, Ma, sponsored by the Fall Prevention Team of Addison Gilbert
Hospital/Beverly Hospital and NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders).
Participants of the fair included community members from the surrounding cities. Participants
were asked a few brief questions, including if they suffer from Diabetes or PVD and if they
currently were under the care of a podiatrist. We then performed a five-minute foot and nail
assessment, assessing for common foot and nail deformities, such as bunions, callous formation
and hammertoes. A 10-point monofilament test was performed for loss of protective sensation
(LOPS). If a participant has LOPS (defined as unable to feel the monofilament in one site) the
Foot and Nail Care Screening form was sent to the participant’s primary care provider for
review.
This fair allowed us to provide education on the importance of proper foot and nail care
and prevention of ulcer formation in those with diabetes. The fair was a success with over 100
participants and over 35 foot and nail screenings completed.