A nurse is assisting with teaching a class about vulnerable populations that are at risk for health disparities. The nurse should include that a client who lives in a crowded apartment building is at risk for which of the following conditions?

Choice A reason : Applying lotion between the toes is not recommended for individuals with diabetic neuropathy. Moisture can accumulate in these areas, creating an environment conducive to fungal infections. Instead, lotion should be applied to the tops and bottoms of the feet to keep the skin moisturized and prevent cracking, but the areas between the toes should be kept dry⁵.

Choice B reason : Wearing open-toed shoes is generally not advised for patients with diabetic neuropathy. Open-toed shoes can expose the feet to injuries, which can go unnoticed due to the loss of sensation associated with neuropathy. It's important for individuals with diabetic neuropathy to wear well-fitting, closed-toed shoes that protect the feet from external injuries⁵.

Choice C reason : Washing feet in hot water is unsafe for those with diabetic neuropathy because they may not be able to accurately gauge the temperature due to reduced sensation, leading to burns. The water temperature should be warm, and individuals should always test it with their hands or a thermometer before immersing their feet⁵.

Choice D reason : Walking barefoot is risky for individuals with diabetic neuropathy because they may not feel cuts, scrapes, or other injuries due to decreased sensation in their feet. These injuries can lead to infections and ulcers if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid walking barefoot and to always wear protective footwear, even indoors⁵.

Choice A reason : Trust vs. Mistrust.The stage of Trust vs. Mistrust is the first stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, occurring from birth to approximately 18 months of age. In this stage, the infant is uncertain about the world and looks towards their primary caregiver for stability and consistency of care. If the caregiver is reliable, consistent, and nurturing, the child will develop a sense of trust, believing that the world is safe and that people are dependable and affectionate. This sense of trust allows the child to feel secure even when threatened and extends into their other relationships, maintaining their sense of security amidst potential threats.

Choice B reason : Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt.The stage of Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt is the second stage of Erikson's theory, spanning the toddler years from 18 months to three years. In this stage, toddlers begin to assert their independence by making choices and taking control over their actions. Success in this stage leads to feelings of autonomy, while failure results in feelings of shame and doubt. However, this stage is not applicable to the scenario described, as it involves an infant, not a toddler.

Choice C reason : Identity vs. Role Confusion.Identity vs. Role Confusion is the fifth stage, occurring during the teen years from 12 to 18. This stage is characterized by the exploration of personal identity and the development of a sense of self. The scenario provided does not pertain to an adolescent, so this stage is not relevant to the infant's experience.

Choice D reason : Integrity vs. Despair.The stage of Integrity vs. Despair is the eighth and final stage of Erikson's theory, occurring in older adulthood from 65 to death. This stage involves reflecting on one's life and either concluding it with a sense of integrity and fulfillment or with a sense of despair over a life misspent. This stage is not applicable to the infant described in the scenario.