Infectious Disease Impact
The Soft Soles Advanced Diabetic Foot Care Team takes your health and our seriously. We follow the advice of the local, provincial, and federal health authorities as well as guidance from our College of Nurses of Ontario.
How our process keeps patients safe:
Assessment: Nurses are trained to evaluate the lower extremities for any signs of infection, ulcers, and circulatory or neurological issues. Documenting findings, such as color, temperature, and any deformities or lesions. Adding images to the chart so a follow-up on the treatment plan can be arranged.
Education and Communication: The nurses are trained in effective communication. They can educate about good foot care practices, including daily inspections, hygiene, and the importance of proper footwear. Provide information on managing conditions like diabetes, arthritis and the aging process which can significantly impact foot health.
Hygiene & Protection: The nurse will ensure nails are trimmed straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails. Clean and dry feet thoroughly, especially between toes, and apply suitable moisturizer.
Monitoring and Follow-up Care: Monitor the patient for changes in skin integrity, circulation, and sensation. Schedule regular follow-up appointments for at-risk patients, and coordinate care with other healthcare providers, when necessary, for comprehensive treatment.
Infection Control: Pre screening before the appointment to make sure everyone feels well enough to go ahead with the visit. Utilize sterilized instruments or single-use tools as per best practices in infection prevention and control (IPAC) standards. Adhere to Personal Protective equipment guidelines and hygiene protocols to minimize the risk of infection.
For patients that do need to come into the office or see a nurse in their home, here is a list of ways we are keeping you safe and in a clean environment:
In the Clinic
1. All new patients are asked to fill in forms online or ask your nurse to help you fill out the forms to eliminate the use of pen/paper.
2. The schedule is spaced so that no two patients are in the office simultaneously.
3. Patients are asked to wait in the car and call upon arrival. The nurse will tell you when she is ready to begin the visit.
4. Patients are encouraged to wear a simple surgical mask or a homemade mask during the appointment.
5. Nurses will wear a mask, goggles or face shield, a gown, and gloves at all times.
6. After the visit, your nurse thoroughly cleans and wipes all surfaces with disinfectant spray and wipes.
In-Home Care
1. The nurse will ask you to leave the door unlocked just before the appointment. Please do not wait at the door.
2. Your nurse will arrive wearing a mask and will put on a gown, gloves, and face shield or goggles inside the home when she arrives.
3. After your treatment, the nurse will clean the work area and discard the gown and gloves. Please have a garbage bag handy.
Nurses will continue to use gown, gloves, and N95 masks during care and clean equipment between patient care; as is our policy.
Soft Soles is dedicated to protecting the public and our vulnerable populations.
We will be continuing to practice best practices in infection control for patient care.
Do you have cough, fever, that is accompanied by headache? Re-schedule your appointment after a 2 week self-monitoring period. If you have been in contact with or traveled outside of the country within the 2 weeks prior to your appointment, re-schedule your appointment after a 2 week self-monitoring period.