Clinical recommendation	Evidence rating	References
The existence, severity, and extent of infection, as well as vascular status, neuropathy, and glycemic control should be assessed in patients with a diabetic foot infection.	C	3, 9
Visible bone and palpable bone on probing are suggestive of underlying osteomyelitis in patients with a diabetic foot infection.	C	13, 14
Before an infected wound of a diabetic foot infection is cultured, any overlying necrotic debris should be removed to eliminate surface contamination and to provide more accurate results.	C	3, 17
Routine wound swabs and cultures of material from sinus tracts are unreliable and strongly discouraged in the management of diabetic foot infection.	B	17–19
The empiric antibiotic regimen for diabetic foot infection should always include an agent active against Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus if necessary, and streptococci.	A	3, 5, 7, 8