A diabetic patient presents with the complaint of right foot pain but denies any recent known injury.He states it has gotten progressively worse over the past few months.On exam,vibratory sense,as well as sensation tested with a monofilament,was abnormal.The patient's foot is warm,edematous,and misshapen.The nurse practitioner suspects Charcot foot.What intervention is indicated?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Charcot foot is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to severe deformity and disability over time. Referral to an orthopedist is the best intervention in this case as they are specialized in treating conditions involving the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot. Warm soaks or pain management is not enough to manage this condition. A referral to a cardiologist, while important for ruling out peripheral vascular disease, is not necessary for the treatment of Charcot foot.

A Diabetic Patient Presents with the Complaint of Right Foot