Wound Care in Diabetic Patients Diabetics are much more apt to develop wounds that will not properly heal. Patients that are hospitalized and develop bed sores, may have them develop into infections that are resistant to treatments. Several factors work against a diabetic patient and can add to the complexity of a wound that does not seem to be healing. Risk Factors  A hospitalized diabetic patient will probably be spending a considerable amount of time in bed. This can lead to bed sores, which in itself is a problem, however, combined with the fact that the patient is diabetic, it then becomes a significant problem. Diabetic patients often have numbness in and around sores. They may not have any indication of soreness, tenderness, or any abnormalities exist until it's too late.  Patients that tend to lay in one certain position are more likely to develop bed sores or skin breakdown. Have patients lay on their sides every couple of hours throughout the waking hours. If mobility is an option, have a comfortable chair available and make use of it several times per day. Walking helps get blood circulating; if possible, encourage the patient to walk in designated areas.  The more obese a patient is, the more likely it is that they may develop sores or skin breakdown while confined to bed. Be certain to check an overweight person's skin daily for signs of developing wounds. Lift folds of skin and check creases to ensure no rash or sore is developing. Report any findings to the attending physician so treatment can be prompt. Related: What are the risk of Obesity? What are the Treatments? Helping to ensure the diabetic patient has clean, dry skin at all times can help prevent skin irritation and sores. It may be necessary to do skin checks multiple times daily to maintain the proper level of hygiene and prevention of skin breakdown or bed sores. For pre-existing wounds, be sure to continue to monitor the affected area regularly, and provide treatment per physician's orders. Report any changes to the attending physician, even minor changes can signal a worsening condition. Check temperature often and notice any spikes which may signify infections. Diabetic patients suffer from poor circulation, so leg massages can help improve blood flow, and can also help relax the patient. Check the feet of
your patient to ensure no sores have developed. Keep in mind, diabetic patients often have severe neuropathy and may not feel an injury, regardless of the severity. A Diabetic Patient Hospitalized A 44 year old diabetic patient was hospitalized for a knee replacement. The surgery went well, no complications; however, as the patient was attempting to walk, he stepped on the bottom of one of the crutches. This cut his foot, although minimally, it was noted that it should be monitored. Three days later as the patient was about to be released, his Nurse noticed a small amount of blood on his bed linens. The injury to his foot was bleeding and had obvious signs of infection. The patient was not released that day, in fact, he ended up being transferred to a wound care center as the wound did not heal. 6 months later the patient returned for a visit and to thank his nurses. He was unfortunately, in a wheelchair, as he ended up having his foot amputated. For diabetics, this can happen much more often than with the general population. It's vital to do regular skin checks on themselves, and when hospitalized, by a nurse. Related: What does an RN Do? Thankfully, today's diabetic patient can live a normal and productive life. There are certain precautions they need to be aware of, one of which is any sore, rash, or blister, to ensure it heals properly. There are commonly prescribed medications to treat neuropathy, which may help with the lack of sensation in lower extremities. Performing daily skin checks should be part of the diabetic patient's lifestyle, just as insulin injections, and blood glucose monitoring. Any sore or blister should be treated as a potential infection to prevent complications. Diabetic patients should be monitored closely for complications that relate to their pre-existing medical condition, as doing so can prevent further complications. The American Diabetes Association website has valuable information on ways to prevent injuries, healing after surgery, and even recommendations for shoes that help protect feet from harm. Related: Highly Regarded Registered Nurse Wendy Webb, RN, BSN, will be Featured in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter