When providing nail care, you can watch for signs of irritation or infection. This is especially important in a person with diabetes, for whom a small infection can develop into something more serious. Fingernails and toenails can thicken with age, which will make them more difficult to trim.

1. Assemble supplies -- soap, basin with water, towel, nailbrush, scissors, nail clippers, file, and lotion.
2. Wash your hands.
3. Wash the hands of the person in your care with soap and water and soak the hands in a basin of warm water for 5 minutes.
4. Gently scrub the nails with the brush to remove trapped dirt.
5. Dry the nails and gently push back the skin around the nails (the cuticle) with the towel.
6. To prevent ingrown nails, cut nails straight across.
7. File gently to smooth the edges.
8. Gently massage the person’s hands and feet with lotion.

NOTE: If other members of the household are using the same equipment, clean the nail clippers with alcohol.