A nurse is reinforcing teaching about foot care with a client who has diabetes mellitus. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of the teaching?

The scenario involves preventive foot care teaching for a client with diabetes mellitus. Knowledge of peripheral neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease pathophysiology must be applied to identify behaviors that prevent tissue ischemia, thermal injury, and bacterial infection. Choice A rationale Applying lotion between the toes creates a warm, moist environment that promotes fungal or bacterial proliferation. Moisture retention in interdigital spaces increases the risk of maceration and subsequent skin breakdown. Choice B rationale Peripheral neuropathy diminishes thermal sensation in the feet, increasing burn risks. Testing water with the wrist, where sensation remains intact, ensures the temperature is safe and below 41 degrees Celsius. Choice C rationale Rounding corners of toenails increases the risk of the nail growing into the lateral nail fold tissue. Nails must be cut straight across, and edges smoothed gently, to avoid ingrown nails and infection. Choice D rationale Decreased pain and thermal sensitivity from neuropathy prevent the client from feeling tissue damage caused by heat. Heating pads can cause severe thermal burns in ischemic or neuropathic diabetic feet.