Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers for the Healthcare Team

Course overview

Patients with diabetes mellitus can face significant health complications because of their illness, including potential retinopathy, kidney disease, and diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Diabetic foot ulcers are a common and serious complication of diabetes mellitus, with the potential to result in infection, hospitalization, and possible amputation if not managed appropriately. Care teams should be familiar with local care strategies for optimal healing. Treating DFUs requires a collaborative care approach involving endocrinologists, vascular specialists, podiatrists, infectious disease experts, and primary care providers. Collaborative care includes educating patients and their caregivers on self-care practices. Early detection, preventive measures, and equitable care delivery are essential to reduce the burden of diabetic foot complications, reduce systemic disparities, and improve outcomes.