Leader: Rajna Ogrin; Jane Tennant

Offered

Parkville First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Parkville Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit deals with the assessment and management of clients with diabetic foot disease. We explore the aetiology and clinical presentation of complications of diabetes mellitus that manifest in the lower limb and foot. Assessment of diabetic foot disorders will focus on pressure and foot mechanics, peripheral sensation and circulation. Clinical management and evaluation of diabetic foot wounds will cover wound dressings, antibiotics, debridement and orthopaedic reconstruction, along with other health related issues.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Review the anatomy and unique weight bearing functions of the foot;
2. Review the pathophysiology, general clinical presentation and medical management of diabetes mellitus;
3. Describe the aetiology, pathophysiology and clinical presentation of lower limb and foot complications in diabetes mellitus;
4. Discuss issues associated with weight bearing functions of the foot and the role of mechanical factors in diabetic foot ulceration;
5. Identify and discuss the causes of foot ulceration in diabetes demonstrating an appreciation for the multi-factorial nature of this complication;
6. Describe the process of clinical assessment of the foot in diabetes and the diabetic foot wound;
7. Identify and discuss what constitutes the'high risk' foot in diabetes;
8. Detail the holistic management of diabetic foot wounds including local wound care, pressure reduction techniques, medical management, psychological/sociological aspects of the care plan and the role of the health care team; and
9. Outline and describe the potential complications of diabetic foot wounds including infection and amputation.

Assessment

Two minor assignments (30%), one major assignment (60%), participation in online tutorials (10%)

Prerequisites

VCW1101; VCW1102; VCW1103; VCW1104; VCW1105