Patient/caregiver was educated on prevention and control of cellulitis as follows:
- Cleansing any open wounds regularly with mild soap & water and applying any recommended antibiotic ointments can help prevent development of cellulitis.
- Malnourished individuals present with poor immune status and poor wound healing abilities, which can increase their risk for cellulitis significantly. Good nutrition plays an essential role with maintaining a strong immunity and is very important for healing of damaged and injured tissues. Observe compliance with intake of recommended protein and nutrition intake to help strengthen immunity, repair of damaged tissues, and prevent development of cellulitis.
- Poor controlled diabetes, secondary to neuropathy and compromised blood supply in the distal extremities, can be a serious risk factor for infection and cellulitis. Poorly controlled blood sugars can also limit white blood cell synthesis and reduce the ability of immune system to fight infections, thus increasing risk for cellulitis. Diabetic individuals must observe compliance with close inspection of feet every day for any wounds and evolving signs of cellulitis to help an early intervention. Trim the toenails straight across, smooth them with a nail file, and avoid cutting into the edges of the toes to help prevent any skin cuts, toenail infection, and episodes of cellulitis. Avoiding being barefooted by having appropriate footwear on always and observing compliance with podiatrist appointments can also help prevent any cellulitis changes in the feet.
