Challenges Of Caring For Diabetic Foot Ulcers In Resource-Poor Settings

Abstract

Foot ulceration is a common occurrence in diabetes worldwide. The burden of diabetic foot ulceration is heaviest in the resource-poor parts of the world where the incidence is high but sophisticated and efficient diagnostic, therapeutic and rehabilitative facilities are sparse. Foot ulceration commonly follows minor trauma to the foot with pre-existing neuropathy and ischaemic disease. Superimposed infections may cause the progression of diabetic ulcers to gangrene requiring limb amputation. The care of diabetic foot ulcers in economically disadvantaged parts of the world is expensive. Physical, emotional, and social disturbances associated with diabetic foot ulcers are clinically significant. Therefore, nursing care plan for individuals with diabetes with foot ulcers must focus on these important physical and emotional care issues. The dearth of specialized care in parts of the developing world compounds the lack of appropriate facilities required for the care of diabetics with foot ulcers. Patient education about foot care as well as frequent and detailed foot assessment by the health care providers may reduce the prevalence of foot ulceration and lower extremity amputation.