Final answer:
Placing a patient with a diabetic foot ulcer on bed rest with the affected foot elevated is done to reduce edema and promote wound healing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rationale that best supports placing a patient with a diabetic foot ulcer on bed rest with the affected foot elevated is b) To reduce edema. Elevating the affected foot helps to decrease the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space, reducing edema. This can help improve blood flow and gas and nutrient exchange in the area, facilitating wound healing.