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OverviewWhen you have diabetes, your blood sugar level may get too high. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves. This is called diabetic neuropathy. Nerve damage can cause pain, burning, tingling, and numbness and may leave you feeling weak. The feet are often affected. When you have nerve damage in your feet, you cannot feel your feet and toes as well as normal and may not notice cuts or sores. Even a small injury can lead to a serious infection. It is very important that you follow your doctor's advice on foot care. Sometimes diabetes damages nerves that help the body function. If this happens, your blood pressure, sweating, digestion, and urination might be affected. Your doctor may give you a target range for your blood sugar that is higher or lower than you are used to. Try to keep your blood sugar very close to this target range to prevent more damage. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. How can you care for yourself at home?
To care for your feet
When should you call for help?Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if:
Where can you learn more?Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd Enter V828 in the search box to learn more about "Diabetic Neuropathy: Care Instructions". Which interventions might the nurse implement in order to prevent pressure ulcers?Use wedges, pillows, and mattresses.
Pressure ulcers often occur on boney prominences such as the sacrum, heels, and hips. Keep these areas protected with foam wedges, heel protectors, pillows, and air mattresses.
Which actions are included in the assessment of the patients hygiene?While assessing a patient's personal hygiene, the nurse would assess whether the patient is able to shave, apply makeup, and comb hair properly. The nurse would assess the patient's body weight while assessing the nutritional status.
Which factor influences a patient's hygiene practices?Factors Influencing Hygiene. Personal Preferences. Patients have individual desires and preferences about when to perform hygiene and grooming care. ... . Body Image. ... . Health Beliefs and Motivation. ... . Cultural Variables. ... . Physical Condition.. How frequently would the nurse perform an oral hygiene routine on a patient who is unconscious?An unconscious or unresponsive patient requires mouth care as often as every 1 to 2 hours.
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