Diabetic Leg Ulcers : Prevention and treatment

Diabetic leg ulcers are a major complication of diabetes, and are one of the leading causes of hospitalization for diabetic patients. Diabetic foot ulcers often require specialized treatment and their prevention requires early, acute detection and intervention. The information regarding these issues can be varying and fragmented between many differing sources, possibly leading to different approaches to diabetic foot care between locations. The aim of this study was to find effective methods of prevention and treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. The purpose was to compile this information, and offer it in an easy to find, approach and read format for nurses and nursing students. A literature review through electronic databases search of Cinahl and Pubmed was per-formed. Included were full, recent (years 2010-2016) and diverse articles. Total number of articles reviewed were 16. The data analysis was conducted as content analysis. Varying methods for both treatment and prevention were found as a result of the review, ranging from patient guidance and regular check-ups to surgical intervention Their effectiveness varies, requiring careful contemplation on a case-to-case basis. Often multiple different methods are required to be used in combination for effective treatment and prevention of an ulcer