diabetes skin
Patient was instructed on type II diabetes. Some people with type II diabetes can get blood sugar control through diabetes pills. These people do produce some insulin. But it is not enough to keep their blood sugar under control. Type II diabetes can often be controlled by weight loss, sensitive eating, and pills that improve the insulin supply or help it work better.
SN taught patient that diabetes is a life-long disease. You will always have it, so education about your diabetes is very important. The more you learn about diabetes, the better you can control your blood glucose level and avoid complications. To learn how to manage your diabetes, work closely with your health care team.
SN explained that the Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels of the body that supply the skin with blood. Changes to the blood vessels because of diabetes can cause a skin condition called diabetic dermopathy. This appears as scaly patches that are light brown or red, often on the front of the legs.
SN instructed patient and caregiver that Diabetes can dry out your skin. That means you could get injured more easily, be more likely to get an infection, and take longer to heal. When you bathe or shower, use warm water, and a mild, moisturizing soap. After washing and drying off, use a mild lotion to prevent dry skin. Avoid scratching dry skin, apply moisturizer instead.
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.
Empty your pouch when one-third to one-half full. Change your skin barrier every 3-7 days. You should not experience frequent leakage of your pouch seal. If you do, consult a WOC Nurse. Usually soap is not needed to clean the peristomal skin. If you use soap, make sure it does not contain any oils or lotions that can interfere with adhesives. Always rinse your skin and dry completely before you adhere the new pouch. After you apply your skin barrier, hold it in place against your skin for about one minute. This will help to activate the adhesive. You can shower, bathe, or swim with your ostomy after you are cleared by your physician. If you are using a bedside collection bag, clean it daily with a recommended solution to help minimize odor, crystal formation, and bacteria.
SN instructed patient/CG to seek medical attention if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Augmentin such as: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have: severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody; pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness; loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); easy bruising or bleeding; little or no urination; or severe skin reaction - fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
SN instructed patient about Sulfamethoxazole. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects: Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing, Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash, Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes, Chest pain, cough, or trouble breathing, Confusion, weakness, Muscle twitching, Severe diarrhea, stomach pain, cramps, bloating, Skin rash, purple spots on your skin, or very pale or yellow skin, Sore throat, fever, muscle pain, Uneven heartbeat, numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or lips, Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness. If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor: Mild nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
Patient was instructed on depression as a diabetes complication. Depression and diabetes are two conditions that can sometimes go hand-in-hand. Fist, diabetes can increase the risk of depression, in fact having diabetes doubles the risk of depression compared to people who don't have this disease.
Patient was instructed on depression as a diabetes complication. It is often a vicious cycle. Depression can get worse as the complications of diabetes get worse, and being depressed can stop people from managing their diabetes as effectively as they need to, which can lead to increased incidence of long-term complications of diabetes as neuropathy or nephropathy.