State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Prep for Exam Success!

When providing foot care to a resident, checking the feet for skin breakdown is an essential practice because it helps identify any potential issues early on. Skin breakdown can lead to more severe complications, such as infections or ulceration, particularly in residents with reduced mobility, diabetes, or other health conditions that affect circulation and skin integrity. By routinely examining the feet during care, the nurse aide can ensure that any signs of redness, blisters, or other abnormalities are noted and reported to the appropriate healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

In the context of foot care, while other practices like removing calluses and corns, keeping the water at a safe temperature, and applying lotion might seem beneficial, they may not be appropriate or necessary depending on the resident's specific needs and health status. For instance, not all residents will require removal of calluses and corns, and applying lotion between the toes is often discouraged as it can promote moisture that may lead to fungal infections. Therefore, prioritizing a thorough examination for skin breakdown aligns with best practices in patient safety and care.