Patient/caregiver were instructed on the complications that could arise from poorly managed diabetic foot ulcers as follows: Development of dead tissue at the ulcer site can lead to necrosis & gangrene, giving the wound site a black discoloration. Progressive worsening of the diabetic wound with development of repeated infections and necrotic tissue could result in development of deeper and complicated wound. This can worsen the wound on the staging and grading scale, making it a [...]

Patient/caregiver were instructed on the complications that could arise from poorly managed diabetic foot ulcers as follows: Diabetic foot ulcer usually is an ulcer with full-thickness skin loss and a circular punched out appearance. The ulcer site is surrounded by hard callus, which is thickened and hardened portion of the skin. Due to the neuropathy in poorly managed diabetics, individuals often have poor sensation at the ulcer site, which contributes to the painless nature of [...]

Patient/caregiver were instructed on the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers as follows: Poorly managed diabetics could present with compromised blood circulation in the distal lower extremities, which can result in diminished blood supply to the ulcer site. Rich blood supply delivering fair amounts of oxygen and nutrients is needed for healing of the ulcer site. Continued compromised blood supply to the feet in poorly managed diabetics also leads to increased risk for delayed [...]

Patient/caregiver were instructed on the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers as follows: Certain pressure points on the bottom of the feet, such as, skin on the ball of foot and heel, are increasingly exposed to mechanical factors, such as, friction, pressure, and shearing stress. These pressure points on the feet, in response to continuous exposure to mechanical factors, develop calluses, which are hardened portions of the skin. Diabetic foot ulcers usually develop within [...]

Patient/caregiver were instructed on the staging and grading of diabetic foot ulcers as follows: The severity of diabetic foot ulcers can be graded and staged, depending on the depth of the wound, extent of tissue involvement, and presence of complications. The grading of diabetic foot ulcers could vary from a closed or healed wound with potential to recur anytime in future to an open wound. Risk factors contributing to recurrence of the diabetic foot ulcers [...]