The doing which makes the difference: taking care of a wounded diabetic person – diabetic foot

Abstract

In Brazil, an estimated 5 million people live with diabetes mellitus, annually; 2% to 3% of these people may develop ulcers in their lower limbs. This study aims to report the healing process of a 47-year-old diabetic patient with lesions to his right foot – supposedly diagnosed for amputation – being cared for at a basic health care unit in the city of Rio Grande – RS. The wounds were covered with a great amount of purulent secretion and a fetid smell. We applied a few therapeutic measures in order to achieve recovery of the wounded member. After four weeks of care, the patient appeared very satisfied with the evolution of the treatment and we could already see granulation tissue all over the wound. This report somewhat shows us that a systematized, individualized nursing approach, carried out through commited knowledge, organized and integrated with the other professionals, is really capable of making a complete difference within a changing and dynamic universe. Today we take care, tomorrow we might be taken care of; thus, we enjoy making a difference.