Diabetic Foot & Nail Care Flashcards

In a patient with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, foot care education should emphasize:

Answer: Daily self-inspection of feet using a mirror

Daily visual inspection using a mirror helps detect wounds, blisters, or infections early, which is critical since neuropathy impairs pain sensation.

Which classification system is commonly used to grade diabetic foot ulcers?

Answer: Wagner Grading System

The Wagner Grading System (grades 0–5) is the most widely used classification for diabetic foot ulcers, ranging from intact skin to gangrene.

Why are diabetic patients advised against using over-the-counter callus removers?

Answer: They contain keratolytic acids that can cause chemical burns in patients with reduced sensation and poor healing

OTC callus removers (e.g., salicylic acid pads) can cause chemical burns and ulceration in diabetic patients who cannot sense the burning sensation.

A patient with Type 2 diabetes presents with a blood glucose reading of 380 mg/dL before treatment. The appropriate action is:

Answer: Reschedule and advise the patient to contact their physician

Uncontrolled hyperglycemia impairs wound healing and infection resistance; elective nail care should be deferred until glucose is stabilized.

Which nail change is a common finding in long-standing diabetes?

Answer: Onychomycosis with subungual hyperkeratosis

Diabetic patients have higher rates of onychomycosis (fungal nail infection) due to compromised immunity and circulatory changes, often presenting with subungual hyperkeratosis.

When trimming the nails of a diabetic patient, the recommended nail length is:

Answer: Even with or just beyond the tip of the toe

Nails should be trimmed level with or slightly beyond the toe tip—too short risks cutting the skin; too long risks catching and tearing.