12_4_2
Volume 12, Number 4, pages 24 - 29
Charcot foot: Implications for nephrology nurses
Lori Harwood, RN, MSc, CNeph(C), and Barbara Wilson, RN, MScN, CNeph(C)
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of end stage renal disease in most countries and, over the past two decades, patients with diabetes mellitus have become the most rapidly expanding segment of the ESRD population (Miles & Friedman, 1999). Renal failure and diabetes mellitus are associated with significant comorbidity. As a result of many factors, individuals with diabetes requiring dialysis are at a greater risk for diabetic foot complications.
Charcot foot is a limb-threatening complication of diabetic neuropathy. The sequelae associated with Charcot foot have a significant impact on functional status, quality of life and morbidity. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the pathogenesis, assessment, patient education and prevention of this debilitating condition, and to discuss the implications for nephrology nurses.
Author Affiliation(s): Lori Harwood, RN, MSc, CNeph(C), is an acute care nurse practitioner/clinical nurse specialist in the renal program, Victoria Campus at the London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario. Barbara Wilson, RN, MScN, CNeph(C), is an acute care nurse practitioner/clinical nurse specialist in the renal program, Victoria Campus at the London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario.