Nurses' knowledge and perceptions related to foot care for older persons

The purpose of this study was to examine nurses' knowledge and perceptions related to foot care of older persons. Nurses representing hospital, home health, and extended care settings were surveyed. Data were collected using a Foot Care Survey, with questions related to the nurse's role with foot care of older adults, importance of various components of patient teaching content, and knowledge about foot care. Only half of the sample reported having content related to the mechanics of foot care in their nursing program. Ninety-five percent of the sample indicated that there is an unmet need of the elderly for assistance with foot care and that provision of this service is a nursing function. There was disagreement between practice setting as to whether the nurse needs a physician's order to do foot care. Nurses employed in home health and extended care settings indicated more independence in performing these functions. The mean score on the knowledge portion of the tool was 9.47 (possible score = 10). The data suggest that nurses possess the knowledge but have not had the opportunity to acquire the associated foot care skills. Implications for nursing education and service were discussed.