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Informational/Educational Report
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Development of best practice guidelines for the treatment of persons with diabetic foot ulcers Laura Teague, RN, MN, ACNP, Josie Santos, RN, MN, Patricia Coutts, RN, Karen Campbell, RN, MScN, NP/CNS, PhD(c), and the RNAO BPG Panel Purpose:.A panel of nurses with expertise in practice, education and research related to wound and diabetic foot care was established by the RNAO. The aim of the guideline was to provide direction to practicing nurses delivering care to those with type 1 or 2 diabetes and foot ulcer. It addresses how to assess and manage patients with established diagnosis of diabetic foot ulcer Methods: .Literature review was conducted. Seven guidelines were appraised using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Instrument (AGREE Tool). These guidelines met the AGREE criteria and were used as foundation documents. The team worked collaboratively to develop recommendations which were reviewed by multidisciplinary stakeholders, patient focus group and expert interdisciplinary advisory panel Results:.Nine major recommendations were developed related to practice, education, research and organizational policy. This guideline stresses the complexity of diabetic foot ulcers and the importance of the interdisciplinary team work in achieving optimal wound healing outcomes. Research gaps were identified in areas of clinical practice, education and health policy..Conclusion:.This guideline will promote consistent approaches to manage patients with diabetic foot ulcers across the province of Ontario and nation-wide. Next steps will be to evaluate the effectiveness of the recommendations within various clinical settings. Assessment and Management of Foot Ulcers for People with Diabetes. Toronto, Canada: Registered NursesÕ Association of Ontario, 2004.. |
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