Final answer:
The ambulatory care nurse should teach a client with Type II Diabetes Mellitus to inspect their feet daily, wear protective footwear always, and maintain an active lifestyle. Hot water soaks and decreased physical activity are not recommended, and monthly foot examinations are insufficient.
Step-by-step explanation:
Education on Foot Care for Clients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus
Among the important teaching points for a client with Type II Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in ambulatory care, is the emphasis on proper foot care to prevent complications such as infections and ulcers. It is incorrect to soak the feet in hot water, as individuals with diabetes may have decreased sensation and could easily burn their feet. Instead, the correct practice for an ambulatory care nurse should include educating the client on the importance of wearing slippers or shoes both indoors and outdoors as a means of protection. This prevents injuries that could go unnoticed due to neuropathy, a common condition in diabetes where the nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to reduced sensation. The advice to decrease physical activity is not appropriate, as regular physical activity can actually help manage diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels. Finally, examining the feet only monthly is insufficient; it is advised that people with diabetes should inspect their feet daily for any injuries or changes. Prompt daily attention to foot care is crucial in preventing serious complications.
The right approach is to teach clients to:
- Regularly inspect their feet, preferably every day.
- Wear protective footwear at all times.
- Maintain an active lifestyle with appropriate physical activity to help manage the condition.
Clients should also keep blood glucose levels well-managed through diet and possibly medication, monitor their feet for signs of cuts, blisters, or infections, and seek medical help for any foot injuries, no matter how small they may seem.