open-toed shoes on a psych/mental health unit

[kimmiejs]

Originally Posted by cowgirlup

would like some info on wearing open-toed shoes on a psych unit. i've worked on 3 different psych units, 2 of which we could wear open-toed shoes. there is not an OSHA rule against this & the only infection control issue i can find regards where you would need PPE (shoecovers).

At my hospital if there is the slightest chance that you will enter a patient's room regardless of where it is open-toed shoes are not permitted.

[Mom-n-More]

I saw people wearing open toed shoes when I did my psych rotation in school and I thought it was a bad idea. You never know what you're going to step in, even in psych and I wouldn't take the risk. I also have a problem with those Crocs that people wear. There are holes in those things!!! The last thing I want is someone's blood, puke, feces or urine on my feet and if you're going to expose your feet like that you may as well be barefoot.

[nursinghumor]

In a Psych Ward, all it takes is one agitated patient, and open-toes shoes will open you up to a world of hurt.

I can see where it adds to a "laid back" appearance and may help a patient relax. However, I've seen too many patient attack nurses to give them an easy target.

Andrew Lopez, RN
http://www.4nursing.com

[Ricu]

Hi everyone,

For what it's worth, I think open toed shoes in any work environment except a business office would be hazardous for the wearer.

R

[amberdouglas]

I would think in a psych ward you would be even LESS inclined to want to wear open toed shoes...hmm, on med surg you have blood, urine and poop, on psych you have all of the above plus spit and seman thrown in for good measure...and the patient's are throwing in on the floor and at you on purpose...naw, I think I want my feet covered.