foot care
Wound Care
Instructed caregiver the patient are at high risk if the patient have or do the following: Neuropathy, Poor circulation, A foot deformity (e.g., bunion, hammer toe), Wear inappropriate shoes, Uncontrolled blood sugar, History of a previous foot ulceration.
Patient was instructed how to reduce friction and shear. Use draw sheet for repositioning, encourage use of trapeze if possible, keep head of bed elevated (if tolerated), elevate foot of bed slightly (if condition permits), use pillow or wedge to support hip (side lying, lateral position), utilize lifts and transfer devices.
Instructed caregiver reducing additional risk factors, such as , high cholesterol, and elevated blood glucose, are important in prevention and treatment of a diabetic foot ulcer. Wearing the appropriate shoes and socks will go a long way in reducing risks. the patient podiatrist can provide guidance in selecting the proper shoes.
Instructed patient keep pressure off your ulcer, especially if it’s on your foot. This may mean you need to use crutches, special footwear, a brace, or other devices. Reducing pressure and irritation helps ulcers heal faster.
Instructed in refusal to observe wound care or participate with care if they feel unable/uncomfortable with this procedure.
Patient is unable to perform wound care due to complexity of wound, location, size of wound, poor manual dexterity, forgetful (dementia), and knowledge deficit. No skilled/willing caregiver to perform wound care.
Instructed caregiver the key to successful wound healing is regular podiatric medical care to ensure the following “gold standard” of care: Lowering blood sugar, appropriate debridement of wounds, treating any infection, reducing friction and pressure, restoring adequate blood flow.
Instructed in wound care as ordered by MD such as proper storage of dressing supplies, proper handwashing technique and removal of dressing, proper storage of dressing supplies, cleansing of wound as specifically ordered by MD, proper application of ointments, powders, solutions, etc, if ordered by MD, proper application of specific dressing change if ordered by MD, return demonstration of complete dressing change technique; more than one teaching may be needed.
Instructed in proper handwashing before and after wound care or touching wound site to prevent spread of infection.
Instructed in materials used in wound care. However, even with proper treatment, a wound infection may occur. Check the wound daily for signs of infection like increased drainage or bleeding from the wound that won’t stop with direct pressure, redness in or around the wound, foul odor or pus coming from the wound, increased swelling around the wound and ever above 101.0°F or shaking chills.