INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING NAIL REMOVAL

1. Go home, take it easy today, and keep the foot elevated as much as possible. Your toe will be numb for about 4-6 hours but you might have some numbness until the following day. It is normal for there to be blood on the dressing the first day.
   
   
2. You may take Motrin or Tylenol every four hours as needed for pain relief. If the pain continues, loosen the bandage. If pain persists, call the office.
   
   
3. Leave the dressing on and keep it dry until the next morning.
   
   
4. Start soaking your foot the next morning once a day for 10 minutes. Use 1 tablespoon of Epsom salts or Betadine solution per quart of water.
   
   
5. After soaking, apply an antibiotic cream, such as Bacitracin or Neosporin, and a light gauze dressing or a Band-Aid.
   
   
6. Wear a loose-fitting shoe because the toe will be sore for 3-4 days.
   
   
7. Call the office if you notice any signs of infection such as; increased pain, redness, swelling, or drainage.

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