Diabetic foot ulcers
1. The single greatest risk factor for diabetic foot ulcers is
a. peripheral vascular disease.
b. peripheral neuropathy.
c. poor glucose control.
d. myopathy.
ANSWER: b. Peripheral neuropathy is the primary risk factor for diabetic foot ulcers.
1. Diabetic ulceration can commonly be found
a. around the ankle.
b. over the sacrum.
c. on the dorsal surface of the foot.
d. on the plantar surface of the foot.
ANSWER: d. Always examine the plantar surface of the feet for signs of ulceration. The tips of the toes and the area between the toes are also common sites of skin breakdown.
1. Which of the following complications commonly results from motor neuropathy?
a. Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy
b. diminished sensation
c. claw toes
d. poor circulation
ANSWER: c. Motor neuropathy commonly manifests in weakness of the intrinsic muscles, resulting in imbalance between the long flexors and extensors, which can lead to cavus foot and claw toes.
1. The Semmes-Weinstein test is used to assess
a. blood flow to the feet.
b. protective sensation to the feet.
c. pressure on the plantar surface of the feet.
d. temperature of the feet.
ANSWER: b. The Semmes-Weinstein test uses a 10-g monofilament to assess the patient's protective sensation.
1. Which of the following statements is true of the total contact cast?
a. It is a method of relieving pressure on the foot.
b. It is a special cast for fractures due to Charcot neuropathic osteoarthropathy.
c. It is recommended for use over infected wounds.
d. It can be removed and reapplied easily.
ANSWER: a. The total contact cast is an off-loading device that relieves pressure on the foot ulcer. However, because it is typically left in place for up to a week at a time, it is not indicated for use over infected wounds.
Source: Wound Care made Incredibly Easy!! Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2003.