The health care provider orders meticulous foot care on a patient with diabetes. What is the best rationale for the nurse to assess the patient for complications?

Question

a. Poor hygienic practices in patients with diabetes
b. Vascular changes, which reduces circula-tion
c. The aging process, which causes skin breakdown and ulceration
d. Limited joint range of motion, which makes caring for feet difficult

Answer 1

B
People with diabetes develop many different foot complications associated with nerve damage and poor blood flow to the lower extremities. Foot injuries in the patient with diabetes can quickly turn into a serious problem with slow healing, infection, and the possibility of amputation. According to the American Diabetes Association (2012a) more than 60% of lower limb amputations for nontraumatic reasons are associated with diabetes. If a patient has diabetes or any other condition affecting peripheral circulation or sensation, recommend a podiatrist for reg-ular examinations and trimming of nails. Also instruct these patients to report any of the follow-ing to their health care provider: abnormalities or changes in the nail, including changes in nail shape or color; bleeding around the nails; thinning or thickening of the nails; redness, swelling, or pain around the nails. Poor hygienic practices, the aging process, and limited movement are all good reasons to assess the foot of a diabetic patient, but because of the specific complications related to the vascular changes that occur with diabetes, this is the best rationale to assess for complications.