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The provision of care for patients with type II diabetes in primary care must involve assessing patients for peripheral neuropathy of the feet.
The significance
and impact of under recognized and undertreated painful diabetic neuropathy
(PDN) in the primary care setting have been depicted in this article. In
managing and treating PDN in diabetic patients, there is a requirement for
greater awareness and education around the impact of painful diabetic
neuropathy and the availability of comprehensive resources to aid primary care
practitioners.
The provision of
care for patients with type II diabetes in primary care must involve assessing
patients for peripheral neuropathy of the feet. This paper will demonstrate
that painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is poorly assessed for and treated in
primary care.
A critical
analysis of research will be conducted to identify the prevalence and impact of
PDN among individuals with type II diabetes.
Research evidence
and best practice guidelines are widely available in supporting primary care
practitioners to better assess for and treat PDN. However, the lack of
knowledge, awareness, and implementation of such research and guidelines
prevents patients with PDN from receiving appropriate care. Much international
research exists on the prevalence and impact of PDN in primary care; however,
Canadian research is lacking. Furthermore, the quantity and quality of research
on treatment modalities for PDN are inadequate. Finally, current research and
guidelines on PDN management are inadequately implemented in the clinical
setting.
The
undertreatment of PDN has significant implications on the individual, family,
and society. Healthcare practitioners must be more aware of and better
implement current research and guidelines into practice to resolve this
clinical issue.
Pain Research and Management 2016
The Need for Improved Management of Painful Diabetic Neuropathy in Primary Care
Teresa Sobhy
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