8.5.2 What needs to be considered by health staff when caring for diabetic patients?
- The degree of neuropathy should be assessed by the use of a monofilament on pressure points
- Points in the sole of the foot, big toe and toe joints
- The degree of ischaemia should be assessed using the ankle brachial index (ABI) . If the index is between 0.5 and 0.8 refer to the vascular surgeons
- Deformities of the foot
- The formation of callus and the importance of relieving pressure on these areas
- Swelling of the foot, consider compression therapy, possibly diuretics
- Skin damage
- Infection, look for symptoms
- Necrosis should be assessed when examining the feet