patient-unable
Diseases Process
Instructed patient about basic tips to help prevent infections in people with diabetes: wear shoes or slippers at all times, wear comfortable shoes; get used to new shoes slowly and always wear 'heavy' soft cotton socks.
Instructed patient to keep feet dry, especially between toes, to use lotion to keep skin soft and moist and to keep feet clean. Wash daily with lukewarm water.
Instructed patient to cut toenails straight across. This will help to avoid ingrown toenails. Also instructed to avoid letting somebody else to cut the toenails.
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 to wash feet daily and dry them carefully, especially between toes.
Instructed patient to check feet by looking between toes use a mirror if necessary or have a friend or relative to check them daily. Look for blisters, redness, cuts, breaks, and scratches and report immediately if any of these occur.
Instructed patient to check feet's temperature. If they feel cold or hot, something could be wrong.
Instructed patient to avoid soaking feet into hot water (Test water before use).
Instructed patient about the importance of avoiding getting sick. Seasonal viruses such as common cold, flu and other illnesses may cause DM episodes to increase in frequency and severity.
Instructed patient to contact doctor if any of the following occur: an illness lasting one or two days without improvement; vomiting/diarrhea that continue longer than 6 hours, blood tests that continue to run higher that 240 after taking medications, S/S of high blood sugar.