Diabetic foot: the nurse role in the new therapeutics context - DOI: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v7i1.4955

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to perform a literature review on the therapeutics options for the diabetic foot and the nurse’s role in the treatment of this chronic problem. A bibliographical review on scientific papers and books on the subject was performed. Among the therapeutic modalities used for the treatment of diabetic foot are the debridement and revascularization of ulcers, the use of growth factors and the oxygen therapy. However, the foot/leg amputation has been most frequent treatment due to the advanced stage of the disease in the majority of the patients. Deciding on the most appropriated treatment in order to fulfill all needs of the diabetic individuals, the nurse has played an important role by applying daily bandages on feet lesions, clinically evaluating cicatrisation, and assisting the patient during pre-surgical period when amputation is needed, as well as, providing emotional support to patients and their families.