When Geraldine Potter heard that Tomah Health had joined with Viterbo University to offer a foot care clinic, she decided to try it. When the Camp Douglas resident arrived at the complimentary clinic at Tomah Health March 20, she was set up in one of six student stations where she met Viterbo University DNP program third-year student Lexi Dvorak RN, DNP, who provided her care. “I was initially a bit nervous as I wasn’t sure about the process, but as soon as I sat down, Lexi walked me through each step, and I could explain my concerns,” said Potter. “Our feet truly carry us on our journeys in life, so we must take care of them. This foot clinic allows me to get the care my feet need as it’s often hard for me at my age to care for them as I used to,” she said.
Twelve Viterbo University nurse practitioner students set to graduate this May provided foot care to 42 clinic attendees throughout the day. For each attendee, students assessed each foot for areas of concern, cleaned and moisturized the feet, and trimmed and clipped the nails to eliminate any friction or trouble areas. Viterbo University DNP program third-year student Abbey Roisum, RN, DNP, explained that in each assessment, students also checked each foot’s pulse, blood circulation, and sensation for possible health risks. “By providing this clinic, we help give area community members much-needed relief and enhance their overall health,” added Roisum.
Roisum stated that ensuring patients have healthy feet can reduce future health issues, including an increased risk of diabetes and circulatory diseases. “The program at Viterbo is unique in that the three-year program gets the students involved in the community outside of the classroom and clinical. I am grateful for the learning experience and for providing much-needed foot care to those who may not have access to foot care due to limited resources or financial concerns,” said Roisum.
Viterbo University assistant professor LuAnn Fowler, DNP, FNP-C, who helped coordinate the event with Tomah Health officials, said the training is unlike anything students obtain in the classroom. “Many people cannot see or reach their feet; our feet are our true foundation. It’s a very needed service,” said Fowler. She said the clinic was a success and fulfilled a need in the community with 17 returning attendees and a waitlist of 60 people. “The flow of the clinic allows students the opportunity to work hands-on with the patients, and it’s wonderful to see the interactions between students and participants,” she said. “Feet are often forgotten when people are being seen, so this experience will help students remember how important it is to check their patients’ feet.”
Fowler thanked all the students for their hard work and time, adding that they couldn’t offer the clinic without them. “I was an employee at Tomah Health for 25 years, starting as a nursing assistant, followed by an RN to become a nurse practitioner. Even though I no longer work at Tomah Health, my commitment remains. Teaching at Viterbo and knowing the quality of the nurse Practitioner program, I am so thankful for the continued partnership with Tomah Health, which is so important in our community,” said Fowler.
Tomah Health & Viterbo University officials are planning additional foot care clinics later this year.