An older male adult with diabetes mellitus complains to the nurse that his feet feel like they are burning. Which should the nurse recommend to this older adult to improve his discomfort?

Question

a. Well-fitting, leather shoes
b. Knee-high nylon stockings
c. Soaking feet in warm water
d. Antifungal powder on feet

Answer 1

A

Feedback
A Correct. The older adult is potentially experiencing a peripheral neuropathy from peripheral nerve damage from hyperglycemia. To prevent trauma to the feet, the nurse instructs him to wear comfortable, well-fitting, tie-on shoes with a broad toe space and low heels for protection.
B Incorrect. Nylon stockings for men tend to have restrictive ends that can inhibit tissue perfusion, and because he is at risk for peripheral tissue damage, the con-stricted area can break down. The nurse also instructs him to avoid sitting with one leg crossed over the other or with legs both legs crossed at the knee, because these positions restrict blood flow to the feet.
C Incorrect. Foot soaks potentially cause excessive dryness. To maintain skin in-tegrity, feet should be washed daily but not soaked daily.
D Incorrect. Irritating chemicals such as antifungal powder and corn or wart prep-arations should not be used on the feet of diabetic individuals.