What To Do — And Not To Do — If You Nick a Client's Foot
byBruce Pichler DPM, MD |
September 3, 2019
IStock.com/ Alexraths
Anytime sharp or abrasive tools are used on a client during a pedicure, there's a possibility of inadvertently causing a nick or cut that bleeds. When this occurs, what do you do? Along with an apology, you might, out of habit, apply a topical antibiotic and a light dressing — a routine response. However, I would encourage you to reevaluate your protocol for this type of bleeding.
The client now has a wound on the foot, which should be managed differently than a similar wound elsewhere on the body. Specifically, it has to do with the use of a topical antibiotic ointment. If your instruments have been properly disinfected or sterilized and the foot has been cleaned in freshwater, bacterial infections should not be an issue. Bleeding is the first step in wound healing. It washes away tissue debris and any bacteria that may be present.
Think twice before applying a topical antibiotic to a client's wound — it may hinder the healing process.
A topical antibiotic ointment, although well intended, may very well interfere with its initial critical step in the healing process. If you review the website for Neosporin, it indicates that their products are only to be used to prevent infections, but it does not indicate that they are designed to treat or cure an infection. The ointment will interfere will the natural washing (draining) process. This draining process is especially important in individuals who have diabetes or are smokers as they often have poorer blood flow to the toes.
What is the better alternative? At your workstation, keep a solution made from water, salt, and vinegar. I recommend 1 gallon of room temperature water, 2 cups of Epsom salt, and 1/2 cup vinegar. The salt will encourage the draining process and the vinegar will kill bacteria that may be present. Wash the wound liberally with the solution and then apply a gauze bandage. Be sure that any tape applied is latex-free. Then have the client soak the foot in the same formula. A single 30-minute soak should be all that is needed.
This protocol is even more important if there is an infection present at the time of caring for the client. An infection means that bacteria are already present. At this point, a referral to a podiatrist or family doctor (who will most likely refer to podiatry) is strongly recommended. But if you find yourself in a situation where you must take care of the client, I suggest following the steps outlined above. Again, a topical antibiotic ointment is specifically not recommended.
With over 30 years of experience treating every type of foot and ankle issue, Bruce A. Pichler, DPM, MD, recently reitred from his North Georgia podiatric practice. Now based in Asheville, N.C., he currently teaches health science classes at area colleges.
For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.
Nearly 8 in 10 adults (78%) say the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress in their lives, while 3 in 5 (60%) say the number of issues America faces is overwhelming to them.
We take a deep breath and consider two proven stress relievers: meditation and mindfulness.
Lucas Products’ new LUCAS-CIDE® #222 RTU ready-to-use hospital-grade disinfectant has received a 60-second kill claim for COVID-19, allowing salons, spas and barbershops to save time cleaning in-between clients.
The larger size also offers an economical choice for users to easily refill existing spray bottles and reduce their plastic consumption, pairing green practices with an eco-friendly disinfectant.
Are you a nail technician dealing with various issues regarding toenail fungi? Worry not. We have a few tips that can help you in treating them with professional care.
The survey asked 2,532 salons to share their safety protocols, representing 19,392 licensed beauty professionals and services for over 2 million+ clients since reopening. The bottom line? Salons are safe for beauty professionals and clients.
Vagaro recently conducted a survey on self-care trends and found a third of respondents (36%) cited getting a manicure/pedicure as a self-care activity.
At freecoat, the goal is to provide a fun, luxurious and clean experience for all guests so they have one less thing to worry about in their self-care routines.
Because of the increased risk of infections in closed environments, clean air is an important consideration for businesses. So, allow us to introduce you to AiroDoctor, a compact and powerful air purifier and sterilizer that could benefit salons.
From a new convergence between healthcare and wellness to a much bigger focus on nature, immunity and “home wellness” to wellness expanding its boundaries to once-taboo issues like sex, money and death
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This hair care brand is working to help stylists approach and understand this highly taboo and stigmatized topic.
After measuring nine different factors that impact skin health in 80 cities around the world, Chemberry names Phoenix, Arizona, as the world's best city for the skin.