foot care
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.
Patient was instructed about feet wash with warm - not hot
Patient was instructed about how make sure the shoes fit well. Even the slightest rubbing or misfit shoe can cause a blister that turns into a sore that becomes infected and never heals. Buy better-fitting shoes, or try different socks, even at the most minor signs of redness or irritation, since you may not be able to feel when it's getting worse. Before buying or putting on the shoes check your shoes for rough seam, sharp edges or other objects that could hurt your feet. Further teaching is needed.
SN suggested patient to have nails, calluses and corns trimmed by podiatrist because those with diabetes have poor circulation. A good blood circulation is known to aid your body in all healing processes, so when it becomes sluggish, it takes longer for any injuries to on feet to heal.
The patient was instructed in buerger’s disease in the role nicotine plays in advancing the disease. The patient was advised on daily foot care, wear well-fitted shoes, avoiding going barefoot, use cotton or wool socks.
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.
SN instructed patient / caregiver on service authorization, advance directives, rights and responsibilities, rights of the elderly and obtained necessary signatures. Instructed patient / caregiver on 24 hour nurse availability and provided / posted the agency telephone number. Also instructed that after hours, weekends and holidays an answering service will reach the nurse and he / she will return the patient / caregiver call and answer any questions or make a visit if needed. Patient and caregiver stated understanding. Patient and caregiver educated on diabetic diet, diabetic foot care, symptoms / signs ( s / s ) of depression, managing pain with medications, healthy skin, and pressure ulcer prevention. Leaflets left in home.
Instructed patient to cleanse feet daily, dry thoroughly especially in between toes. Examine feet daily for bruises/sores/blisters, if any noted, notify MD asap. (use a mirror if needed to visualize) Wear proper fitting shoes and wear slippers/shoes at all times, and exercise feet daily. Demonstrated feet exercises, verbalized understanding.
SN instructed patient and caregiver to monitor circulation r/t Unna boots. Report if dressing is tight and constricting esp. in back of leg. Check color of feet and report if bluish or purple in color. Report any c/o numbness or tingling. Dressing should be removed immediately if any s/s occur. and notify physician or nurse.
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.