Foot care education in renal patients with diabetes.

Foot complications are said to be the primary cause of hospitalization for patients with diabetes, resulting in enormous personal and financial costs. It is reported that end-stage renal disease (ESRD) diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease have a much higher incidence of foot complications and increased risk for amputation. However, despite the serious financial burden caused by diabetic foot ulcers and their complications, the importance of diabetic foot care is still not fully recognised or supported. There is increasing evidence to suggest that education on foot care is essential for patients with diabetes. Studies have shown that simple techniques such as identifying those at risk of developing foot ulcers, educating patients about foot care that is tailored to meet the requirements of individual patient needs, educational background and learning ability can be of obvious benefit to people with diabetes and is cost-effective.