Printable patient guide
Aftercare following a nail procedure
Use this guide alongside the instructions given at your appointment. Your individual dressing, medicine and follow-up instructions take priority.
The first day
Protect the numb toe from knocks and heat. Rest as needed and elevate your foot. Wear roomy footwear and take pain relief as instructed.
Dressing changes
Wash your hands. Keep the dressing clean and dry and replace it if wet or dirty. The first change and washing instructions depend on the procedure. Do not pull off a stuck dressing forcibly.
Healing and normal activities
If phenol was used to prevent regrowth, the treated area may weep during healing. Discharge alone does not mean infection. Cover the wound as instructed and avoid shoes that rub. Healing time and return to work or exercise depend on the procedure and your recovery.
When to contact the clinic
Contact the treating unit on the same day if redness spreads, pain or swelling increases rather than settling, discharge becomes clearly more purulent or foul-smelling, or you develop fever or feel unwell. If timely assessment is unavailable or you are unsure where to go, call 116117. For uncontrolled major bleeding or another life-threatening situation, call 112.
Your agreed plan
Write the individual instructions on this printout at your appointment. Agree any review and who arranges it before leaving.
Date and procedure / phenol used:
First dressing change and washing instructions:
Footwear, activity and pain relief:
Review and contact details: