TAKING THE RIGHT STEPS FOR DIABETIC FEET

Course overview

A 60-year-old woman has learned she has type 2 diabetes. She fears amputation-diabetic complications and wants to care for her feet properly. Could you provide the education she needs? People with diabetes have a tremendous risk for developing a foot ulcer, the precursor to most amputations. Vascular, neurologic, orthopedic and infectious diseases of the lower extremities are twice as likely to occur in people with diabetes. The lifetime risk can reach 25%. People with poorly controlled diabetes are more likely to experience complications as the prolonged elevated blood glucose levels that occur with diabetes are neurotoxic to the feet. Older people and those who are overweight are especially at risk. Limb amputation is the most feared consequence of a foot ulcer. Care of the diabetic foot centers on preventive measures, early identification and aggressive treatment. Diabetic foot complications can cost thousands of dollars to treat and may still result in amputation. The success of treatment varies, and some therapies may be inappropriate or ineffective, depending on individual patient circumstances. Ulcers and amputations are the most significant and debilitating complication. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) often causes the most discomfort -- pain -- and fungal infections are the most common complications. Education is key in preventing diabetic foot complications. This module will teach healthcare providers the causes of diabetes related foot problems and how to prevent foot complications, such as careful control of diabetes, daily foot examination beginning at the time of diabetes diagnosis and proper foot care.