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5B: Management
Once you have identified the signs and symptoms of a diabetic foot ulcer, you then need to determine the correct treatment. Key evidence based management strategies for diabetic foot ulcers may include the following:
| Strategy | Explanation |
| Recommend a medical review | Clients with diabetic foot ulcers may benefit from review by a specialist. |
| Use a team approach to care for a client | Care of diabetic foot ulcers should be undertaken by a multidisciplinary team including podiatrists, orthotists, wound care specialists, the client’s doctor, an endocrinologist, a dietitian and a diabetic educator. |
| Ensure adequate oxygenation | Improving oxygenation of the wound environment promotes healing. Steps to improve oxygen supply to the tissues include avoidance of dehydration, cold, stress and pain. |
| Ensure off-loading of pressure points | It is essential to review the client’s footwear and ensure that pressure is relieved. Otherwise, the wound will fail to heal. |
| Apply suitable dressings | Dressings used to treat diabetic foot ulcers vary depending on the condition of the ulcer and goals of treatment (see GS5 Diabetic Foot Ulcers in the 5E: Module Resources page). Topical antimicrobial dressings may be helpful at preventing infection. |
| Control risk factors | Controlling risk factors known to affect the arteries is essential. For example, try to ensure that blood glucose levels are kept within normal ranges, control the blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, review medications, ensure a healthy and balanced diet, prevent smoking and encourage clients to maintain a healthy weight relative to their height. |
Now that you have learned how to recognise the signs and symptoms of a diabetic foot ulcer and some management strategies, you are ready to learn about how to prevent diabetic foot ulcers from recurring.
