Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic individuals are critical to observe proper foot care as serious complications stem up from a poor foot care. The complication could go worst to the extent of having to perform foot or leg amputation. Having a solid understanding on the importance of foot care when diabetes is confirmed is essential to preventing unwanted complications.
People with diabetes are at higher risk of experiencing foot problems due to reduce blood circulation in the lower extremities. This condition also causes damage to the nerves of the body and the blood vessels as well. About one out of five people with diabetes seek medical help due to foot problems. This data is obtained from the American Diabetes Association. To prevent these problems, diabetic special foot care should be implemented at all times.
The best treatment is not medicine, it is prevention. Daily foot care implementations will keep feet healthy and away from complications. To do so, these materials should be assembled:
- Nail clippers
- Nail file
- Lotion
- Pumice stone
- Hand-mirror (choose a non-breakable mirror)
Having these items available, makes a regular foot care easier to perform.
Daily Diabetic Foot Care Routine
- With a mild soap, wash the feet in warm water. Take note, the water should be warm NOT hot otherwise the person might burn his or her skin.
- To prevent the skin from drying, do not soak the feet. Remove it after washing and rinsing it thoroughly.
- While the feet are still wet, control calluses by using a pumice stone.
- Carefully dry the feet giving special attention to the area in between the toes.
- Check the feet for cuts, cracks, ingrown toenails, blisters and other disruption of the skin integrity. Again, attention should be given in between toes and the assessment should be thoroughly done.
- Check the bottom of the feet. To accomplish this, use a hand mirror. If using a hand mirror won’t give a better view of the foot, ask someone to check them out.
- Cuts and scratches should be cleaned using mild soap and water. After wiping it dry, cover the wound with a dry dressing. Moisture promotes infection. Hence, it is critical to keep the wounds dry.
- Toenails should be trimmed not too short and straight across. Sharp edges should be filed.
- Dab a fragrant-free lotion or foot moisturizer to the heels and soles. Excess lotions should be wiped off. These products are not advised to be applied in the area between the toes.
- Use a proper shoe size and alternate using them each day. Socks should be changed daily and if possible the white ones should be used to see if cuts or sores are present through the drainage.
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Daisy Jane Antipuesto RN MN
Currently a Nursing Local Board Examination Reviewer. Subjects handled are Pediatric, Obstetric and Psychiatric Nursing. Previous work experiences include: Clinical instructor/lecturer, clinical coordinator (Level II), caregiver instructor/lecturer, NC2 examination reviewer and staff/clinic nurse. Areas of specialization: Emergency room, Orthopedic Ward and Delivery Room. Also an IELTS passer.
