Effectiveness of nursing intervention on knowledge about foot self-care practices in diabetic patients with foot ulcer in south India-An interventional study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder which is characterized by elevation in the blood sugar levels. Diabetes leads to multiple long-term complications of the various systems in the body. Foot ulcer accounts for significant morbidity, mortality and health care expenditure.

Aim and objective. The aim of this study was to access the effectiveness of nursing intervention to improve patients' foot self-care knowledge and skills practices in diabetic patients with foot ulcer in south India.

Methods: Quantitative and interventional research approach was adopted for this study, systematic random sampling was used to select 30 patients with diabetic foot ulcer, who fulfilled both the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A 60 second’s tool: screening for high-risk diabetes foot, was used to assess the foot risk. Modified Nottingham Assessment of Functional Foot-care was used to assess foot care practices. RBS, HbA1C levels using hexokinase method and 10g monofilament were used to assess foot sensation.

Results: There has been a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test levels of knowledge about foot self-care practices

Conclusion: The study showed that nursing interventions, IEC, foot care practices and counselling has a significant impact in reducing the foot ulcers and stress among the diabetic patients. Diabetic clinic should initiate interventional foot education program and foot self-care practices throughout the country.