Melissa Parker James Madison university Tell the world Melissa Parker James Madison university

My project For my Tell the World project, I chose to organize certified foot care nurses to provide care for impoverished and elderly diabetics in our community, as well as highlight the importance of the wound care nursing specialty.

Why diabetic foot care? The worldwide estimation of diabetes prevalence is more than 400 million. A diagnosis of diabetes carries with it a host of complications and risks. A significant portion of diabetics will develop diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), which can have a devastating impact on a patient’s quality of life. Over 60% of DFUs will fail to respond to wound therapy, which may lead to amputation, infection, and death (Yates, 2017).

Why this population? Due to the risks associated with DFU, it is crucial that diabetics regularly receive professional foot care. Unfortunately, there are many in our community, particularly the elderly and low-income, who do not have access to foot care professionals. Lack of care leaves this population disproportionately vulnerable to to complications of diabetes.

Project Outcome I contacted a local facility providing care for elderly, low-income clients and offered the services of the local Blue Ridge Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society. We will provide 2 nurses monthly who will assess feet, trim nails, provide wound care recommendations and diabetes education.

Personal reaction I am personally very excited to help provide needed services to this vulnerable population! I hope that our organization can help to mitigate the disastrous impact of diabetes within the elderly, low-income community. This volunteer opportunity will also help to further promote the brand of wound specialist in the community.

References Yates, K. (2017). Multidisciplinary foot care teams and patient expectations. Wounds UK, 13(2), 34-40.