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Foot care: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Check the water temperature, soak and wash the foot including between the toes, rinse, dry thoroughly especially between the toes, and apply lotion to the top and bottom of the foot but not between the toes. Report any skin changes and do not cut toenails unless your facility allows it.

Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.

Steps

KEYmarks 9 steps that candidate handbooks commonly treat as critical. Missing a critical step usually fails the skill.

  1. 1Knock, introduce yourself by name and title, and greet the resident by name.
  2. 2Identify the resident (for example, check the name band or ask the resident to state their name) per facility policy.
  3. 3Explain the procedure in simple words and ask the resident to help as much as they are able.
  4. 4Key step: Provide privacy: close the door and pull the curtain.
  5. 5Key step: Perform hand hygiene before touching the resident.
  6. 6Help the resident sit comfortably in a chair or position them in bed.
  7. 7Key step: Fill a basin with warm water and check the temperature to be sure it is safe and comfortable.
  8. 8Place the basin on a protective barrier and soak the foot as directed.
  9. 9Key step: Wash the entire foot, including between the toes, with a soapy washcloth.
  10. 10Rinse the foot, including between the toes.
  11. 11Key step: Dry the foot thoroughly, especially between the toes.
  12. 12Key step: Warm a small amount of lotion in your hands and apply it to the top and bottom of the foot, not between the toes. Remove excess lotion.
  13. 13Support the foot and ankle throughout the procedure.
  14. 14Put socks and nonskid footwear back on, and empty and rinse the basin.
  15. 15Report cracks, redness, sores or color changes to the nurse.
  16. 16Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.
  17. 17Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  18. 18Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Skipping the water temperature check.
  • Leaving the area between the toes wet.
  • Putting lotion between the toes.
  • Cutting toenails (often outside the CNA role, especially for residents with diabetes).

Quick answers

Why no lotion between the toes?
Moisture between the toes can lead to skin breakdown and fungal infection.
Can CNAs cut toenails?
Often not, especially for residents with diabetes or poor circulation. Follow facility policy and the care plan.

What to do next

Skills and the written test are scored separately, and you must pass both. Check your written readiness in about 15 minutes.

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Related

Sources

Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.