DIABETIC FOOT ULCER: AUTOLYTIC DEBRIDEMENT

Course overview

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are caused by peripheral neuropathy or peripheral vascular disease (PVD) resulting from diabetes mellitus (DM). Debridement is the removal of nonviable tissue (e.g., dead or dying tissue) with the goal of leaving a fresh, vascular wound bed to stimulate the release of growth factors to promote wound healing and decrease the risk of infection. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of the use of autolytic debridement for the treatment of DFUs and to aid in caring for the patient undergoing this treatment. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.