Editing Fundamentals of Nursing – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 13==
The licensed practical nurse is providing foot care to a patient with diabetes. Which action is correct?
# Soak the patient's feet in warm water for 20 minutes to soften calluses.
# Apply a heating pad to the feet to improve circulation.
# Dry thoroughly between the toes and inspect the soles and between the toes for breaks in skin.
# Trim calluses with scissors and file corns smooth.

'''Answer:''' 3. Dry thoroughly between the toes and inspect the soles and between the toes for breaks in skin.

''Rationale:'' Daily inspection and thorough drying prevent maceration, fungal infection, and unnoticed ulceration in feet with reduced sensation. Option 1 is contraindicated, because soaking macerates skin and increases infection risk. Option 2 is dangerous, because neuropathy blunts heat perception and heating pads cause burns. Option 4 is outside safe practice for the patient with diabetes; calluses and corns are referred to a podiatrist, and cutting them risks a nonhealing wound.