A nurse is teaching a client who has diabetes mellitus about foot care. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. "Wear cotton rather than nylon socks.": Cotton socks help keep the feet dry by absorbing moisture, reducing the risk of fungal infections and skin breakdown. They also allow better air circulation than nylon, which can trap moisture and increase friction. This instruction supports protective foot care for clients with diabetes. B. "Use a heating pad to keep your feet warm at night.": Heating pads should be avoided because clients with diabetes may have peripheral neuropathy and reduced sensation. Using heat sources increases the risk of burns or skin injury without the client realizing it, making this unsafe for foot care. C. "Wear loose fitting slippers around the house.": Loose footwear can cause friction, slipping, and inadequate support, increasing the risk of injury. Diabetic clients should wear well-fitting, closed-toe shoes to protect the feet from trauma and prevent skin breakdown. D. "Wash your feet twice per day with antibacterial soap and hot water.": Hot water can burn insensate feet, and antibacterial soaps can dry and irritate the skin. Clients should wash their feet once daily with warm water and mild soap to maintain skin integrity while avoiding injury or excessive dryness.