Final answer:
Patients with type II diabetes, obesity, and those who habitually bite their nails are at higher risk for foot and nail problems, with diabetic patients being particularly vulnerable due to potential nerve damage causing numbness and poor wound healing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients at Higher Risk for Foot and Nail Problems
In assessing the risk for foot and nail problems among patients in a skilled nursing facility, several factors related to health conditions and lifestyle choices play a significant role. Patients at a higher risk include:
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- A patient diagnosed with type II diabetes, as this condition can lead to poor blood circulation and nerve damage (neuropathy), increasing the risk of foot ulcers and infections.
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- A patient who is obese, which can lead to excess pressure on the feet, contributing to a variety of foot problems.
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- A patient who has a nervous habit of biting his nails, which can cause breaks in the skin and possibly lead to infections.
These patients may require more rigorous foot care and observation due to their increased vulnerability to infections and other complications. For instance, neuropathy in diabetic patients can result in numbness that makes them unaware of minor injuries that can escalate into serious infections without proper care.
It is also important to consider external factors related to hygiene and professional care, such as the sterilization of tools and the avoidance of harmful nail products, to maintain overall nail health and prevent further complications.
Learn more about Foot and Nail Risk Assessment