urinary-infections-diet
Instructed patient to never go barefoot or wear thigh garters. Do not wear thigh worn boots for long periods of times. Never let feet get dry and cracked, severe infections may develop. Do not use hot water pads, iodine, hot water bottles or rubbing alcohol. Never use razors, knives or corn remedies.
Instructed patient about diabetes complications such as frequent infections.
Instructed patient on how to identify the first signs of infections.
Instructed patient about the management of infections: bathing everyday with a mild soap and lukewarm water, applying lotion to keep skin moist, wearing gloves when working outside, always wearing shoes and treating injuries promptly by cleaning with soap and water.
Patient was instructed on the difference between a cold and the flu. With a cold, there is poor probably to have much of one headache but with the flu, the headache will be prominent. Of course, we're talking about colds here and not sinus infections, which can cause headaches too.
Patient was instructed about the swine flu. Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person.
Patient was instructed that diabetes can damage many parts of the body, including the mouth and teeth. Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, cavities and tooth loss, dry mouth and a variety of oral infections.
Patient was instructed on a healthy mouth. Poor oral mouth can make diabetes more difficult to control. Infections may cause the blood sugar to rise and require more insulin to keep it under control. In addition diabetes can diminish the ability to taste sweets influencing and changing food choices in favor of additional sweeter tasting foods, thereby affecting the dental health.
Patient was instructed about the skin damage: the skin may be dry and cracked because of high glucose levels, and cracked skin means it's easier for bacteria to get under the skin and harder for infections to heal. Use a small amount of skin lotion daily, to be sure the feet feel dry - not damp or sticky - afterwards. Try not to get the lotion in between the toes. Keep the toenails trimmed and filed smooth to avoid ingrown toenails. Further teaching is needed.
Patient was instructed about how to check both feet daily looking over them carefully every day, and be sure check between all of the toes. Blisters and infections can start between the toes, and with diabetic neuropathy, may not feel them until they've become irritated or infected. If physical challenges occur, ask a family member to help. Further teaching is needed.