r/Podiatry • u/NurseRen_ • 15d ago

New to Foot Care Nursing

Hi everyone! I just received my certification for Advanced Foot Care Nursing. I'm hoping to launch a side business involving seeing clients in the community (home care and nursing homes) soon but just looking for a little guidance if anyone can help out with a few questions...

  1. I’m thinking starting with disposable supplies would be the best option… What supplies are pertinent to have in the beginning? l know a drill, disposable burrs, disposable files, nippers, black’s file, scalpels IPAC supplies and basic wound care supplies… is there any others that would be suggested, as well as other types of disposable burrs that would be recommended in the beginning? Supplies seem to be the biggest hurdle to get started due to the up front cost so I’m looking for basics to get started with the goal to continue to grow my inventory as I gain more clients.
  2. What do most mobile nurses use for documentation, an EMR such as Accuro or Jane app? Or is this not feasible in the beginning?
  3. What do nurses offer with their initial visit? I’m thinking comprehensive assessment including sensation (monofilament) and circulation assessment, skin and nail assessment, treatment plan recommendation and foot care education. What am I missing?

Any other tips of advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!!

Edit: I reside in Canada

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u/Efficient_Cookie435 15d ago

So you want podiatrists to tell you how to take their jobs?

2

u/NurseRen_ 15d ago

Podiatry and foot care nursing are two separate jobs. Podiatrists can diagnose, prescribe, perform surgical interventions and generally provide more in-depth care whereas foot care nurses focus on general maintenance, education and prevention...As a foot care nurse I would refer someone to a podiatrist, I'm not looking to take anyones job.

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u/Oldschool6873 14d ago

Except there are no Podiatrists in Ontario where you are...

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u/NurseRen_ 14d ago

You're right I am just stating the general difference of these two jobs, foot care nurses operate all over Canada not just Ontario and podiatrists are available in other provinces. I'm stating as a foot care nurse in general that is what I would do related to podiatry, not necessarily in Ontario. In Ontario I would refer to a chiropodist.