Person—foot ulcer indicator (current), code N

Identifying and definitional attributes

• Health, Standard 21/09/2005

Value domain attributes

Representational attributes

Collection and usage attributes

CODE 9    Not stated/inadequately described

This code is not for use in primary data collections.

Data element attributes

Collection and usage attributes

CODE 1   Yes
Record if a foot ulcer is currently present on either foot.

CODE 2   No
Record if a foot ulcer is not currently present on either foot.

Access whether the individual has a current foot ulcer on either foot.

Assessment

• ask the patient about previous or current foot problems, neuropathic symptoms, rest pain and intermittent claudication;
• inspect the feet (whole foot, nails, between the toes) to identify active foot problems and the 'high-risk foot';
• assess footwear;
• check peripheral pulses;
• examine for neuropathy by testing reflexes and sensation preferably using tuning fork, 10 g monofilament and/or biothesiometer.

Foot ulcer is usually situated on the edge of the foot or toes because blood supply is the poorest at these sites. In a purely vascular ulcer, nerve function is normal and sensation is intact, hence vascular ulcers are usually painful.

Foot ulcers require urgent care from an interdisciplinary team, which may include a general practitioner, podiatrist, endocrinologist physician, nurse or surgeon.

Source and reference attributes

National diabetes data working group

National Diabetes Outcomes Quality Review Initiative (NDOQRIN) data dictionary.

The Diabetic Foot Vol 3 No 4. Principles of Care and Guidelines for the Clinical Management of Diabetes Mellitus.

Relational attributes