The nurse knows that a diabetic patient admitted for a lower limb infection likely is experiencing which of the following pathophysiologic principles listed below? Select all that apply

Question

A)
Many diabetic patients have sensory deficits and ignore minor trauma just because they can't feel it in their feet.
B)
Patients with chronic diabetes may have vascular problems that impair circulation, and therefore cells needed for adequate inflammatory response cannot reach the site.
C)
Hyperglycemia may provide an environment that enhances the growth of microorganisms.
D)
Infections happen to all age groups and people, and the diabetic patient has the same risk for developing an infection as other patients without diabetes.
E)
Any exercise that creates diaphoresis in the feet can cause a fungal infection in diabetic patients.

Answer 1

Ans:
A, B, C

Feedback:

Suboptimal response to infection in a person with diabetes is caused by the presence of chronic complications, such as vascular disease and neuropathies, and by the presence of hyperglycemia and altered neutrophil function. Certain types of infections occur with increased frequency in people with diabetes: soft tissue infections of the extremities, osteomyelitis, UTIs and pyelonephritis, candidal infections of the skin and mucous surfaces, dental caries, and periodontal disease.