Evolving role of CNSs in developing risk-anchored preventive interventions

Emerging emphases on systems of care, cost containment, and preventive interventions require the CNS to recognize risk factors and change health behaviors before complications develop. To lower substantially the rate of nontraumatic lower extremity amputation, high-risk populations must be screened and must receive appropriate management, including education and self-care interventions. In this article, two studies that examined foot risk factors in ambulatory elderly with intact feet are compared. American Diabetes Association and Gillis W. Long Hansen's Disease Center risk criteria were applied to both datasets. Recommendations for education, management, and referrals based on the calculated level of risk are presented.