LG-podiatric-procedures

Podiatry Learner Guide: Assist with Podiatric Procedures

Introduction

  • Welcome to the Podiatry Learner Guide: Assist with podiatric procedures. This guide has been specifically tailored for allied health assistants aiming to gain knowledge and skills essential for assisting podiatrists in rehabilitation programs developed by health professionals.

Learner Guide Structure

  • The structure of this guide is comprised of three primary topic areas, each with corresponding sub-topics as follows:

    • Organisational Practices:

    • Roles and Responsibilities

    • Policies and Procedures

    • Organisational Practices

    • Podiatry and Podiatric Procedures:

    • Anatomy and Physiology

    • Disease Processes

    • Biomechanics of the Lower Limb

    • Footwear

    • Orthotic Devices

    • Podiatric Surgery

    • Service Delivery:

    • Podiatry Interventions

    • Client Care

    • Monitoring Requirements

  • The guide consists of six sections:

    1. Introduction

    2. Learning Topics

    3. Workplace Observation Checklist

    4. References

    5. Resources and Websites

    6. Appendix

Learning Requirements

  • It is crucial to have a workplace supervisor in allied health who is supportive of your study, with regular clinical supervision helping to keep you on track.

  • Access to the internet may be necessary for certain assessment tasks.

Self-Completion Checklist

  • A checklist is provided to ensure all underpinning knowledge and skills are covered and to ascertain readiness for further assessments.

Recognition for Prior Learning

  • Information related to recognition assessment eligible upon enrollment in further qualifications (e.g., Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance) is outlined.

Symbols Used in the Guide

  • Important Points: Significant information and statistics relevant to practice.

  • Activities: Tasks requiring reflection and skills practice.

  • Further Information: Additional references and resources available.

  • Case Studies: Scenarios for problem-solving and exploration of topics.

  • Research: Extra information for assignments or personal enrichment.

Learning Outcomes

As an Allied Health Assistant will be expected to:

  1. Prepare for surgical Podiatry procedures by obtaining necessary records, conforming to guidelines, and ensuring a sterile environment.

  2. Assist during surgical procedures following podiatrist directions and infection control protocols.

  3. Assist in orthotic device templating and modifications as per podiatrist instructions.

  4. Support clients in footwear selection and fitting under supervision.

  5. Clean, sterilize, and store equipment in accordance with protocols.

  6. Document client information accurately and appropriately.

  7. Comply with supervisory directives while providing podiatry assistance.

Learning Topics

The relationship between learning topics and essential knowledge for competency completion includes:

  • Organisational Practices:

    • Roles and responsibilities within healthcare settings.

    • Understanding relevant workplace health policies and legal requirements.

  • Podiatry and Podiatric Procedures:

    • Fundamental understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathological conditions.

  • Service Delivery:

    • Knowledge of common podiatric conditions and client care planning.

Content Overview 1: Organisational Practice

Organisational Practice

  • Key aspects include roles and responsibilities, organisational policies, and effective practice integration.

  • Essential skills covered:

    • Effective communication with supervisors and peers.

    • Adherence to occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols.

    • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Compliance with Queensland Health's Code of Conduct is mandatory:

    • Integrity and Impartiality: Promise ethical standards and fairness.

    • Accountability and Transparency: Show diligence and attention in service delivery.

Supervision

  • Functions under clear delegation from supervising health professionals (e.g., podiatrists).

  • Modes of supervision include direct, indirect, and delegation.

Policies and Procedures

  • Adhere to organisational protocols regarding OHS and infection control, ensuring a safe working environment.

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes gloves, facemasks, and gowns, as per task requirements.

Content Overview 2: Podiatry and Podiatric Procedures

Anatomy and Physiology of the Foot

  • Epidermis (0.06-0.15mm thick): Contains keratinocytes and melanocytes crucial for skin protection.

  • Dermis (2-4mm thick): Comprises arteries, veins, nerves, hair follicles, sweat glands, etc.

  • Functions of the skin include moisture retention, temperature regulation, and sensory information processing.

The Foot

  • Comprises 26 bones, 38 joints, and 28 muscles, essential for movement and structure.

Nail Anatomy

  • Composed of nail plates, beds, matrices, proximal folds, and hyponychium, aiding in protection and sensation.

  • Average toenail growth takes 8-12 months.

Common Skin Conditions

  • Conditions such as fissures, maceration, hyperkeratosis, and other pathological states commonly affect lower limbs, necessitating awareness.

Foot Pathologies

  • Systemic disorders can