Principles of nursing patients with diabetic foot – the role of nurses in the multidisciplinary team

Abstract

Diabetic foot is a complication of long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes therapy. Over the long-term hyperglycaemia leads to damage to blood vessels and the peripheral nervous system. This results in ischemic feet, and also leads to disruption of their function. Diabetic foot syndrome is a complex problem. Its causes are not only medical but also sociological and economical. From year to year more and more people are becoming diabetic and suffering diabetes related complications. However, funding for diabetes care has been in decline over recent years. Nurses qualified in the treatment of chronic wounds have adequate specific substantive preparation and practical experience and thus can actively participate in treating diabetic foot syndrome. Skilled nursing staff can make a diagnosis, determine the type of injuries, evaluate the stage of wound healing, debridement and select the appropriate dressing. The work of a Nurse-specialist in this area enhances patient knowledge, promoting the prevention and treatment of existing wounds. This can significantly increase success in the treatment of wounds and in the care of patients with diabetic foot, as well as in the prevention of re-formation of wounds in diabetic foot syndrome.