Who cares about foot care? Barriers and enablers of foot self-care practices among non-institutionalized older adults diagnosed with diabetes: an integrative review

Foot care behaviours and associated factors among patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study

Background

As numerous studies highlighted the importance of maintaining proper foot care (FC) behaviours among individuals with diabetes to prevent complications, we sought to assess FC behaviours among patients with diabetes and to identify the factors associated with the practice of diabetic FC.

Methods

We used a cross-sectional design and collected data through self-reported questionnaires administered to a sample of 586 patients from five medical centres. We conducted descriptive and inferential analyses to explore the relationships between potential risk and protective factors and FC behaviours.

Results

Overall, 429 individuals (73.2%) had good FC behaviours, while 157 (26.8%) displayed poor FC behaviours. Furthermore, we identified eight influencing factors on FC behaviours, including smoking status, the availability of a caregiver, the presence of diabetic foot ulcers, amputation history, FC knowledge, subjective norms in diabetes self-care behaviour, diabetes-related stress, and quality of life index values. The logistic regression analysis showed that current smokers were 60% less likely to practice good FC compared to non-smokers (odds ratio (OR) = 0.40; 95%; confidence interval (CI) =  0.22-0.73). Having a caregiver decreased the likelihood of practicing good FC by 50% (OR = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.33-0.84), while having diabetic foot ulcers doubled it (OR = 2.65; 95% CI = 1.26-5.54). Additionally, more FC knowledge increased the likelihood by 20% (OR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.10-1.33), and higher diabetes-related stress increased it by 1.03 times (OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 1.02-1.05).

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the interplay of various factors influencing FC behaviours among individuals with diabetes and call for targeted interventions and tailored strategies to improve FC practices in this vulnerable population.

Health Promotion Models for Improving Footcare in Older Adults: A Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION

Footcare is an important component of wellbeing in older adults and the promotion of appropriate footcare interventions is imperative for health professionals working with this population. In this scoping review, we describe the health promotion models informing footcare interventions for older adults. The objectives were to (i) understand the context(s) where health promotion models have informed footcare interventions; (ii) identify the health promotion models informing interventions; and (iii) document the effectiveness of theoretically informed health promotion interventions for improving footcare in older adults.

METHODS

Footcare interventions developed using health promotion models worldwide and published in English before July 2023 were searched using MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

A total of 2,078 articles were identified, of which 31 were retrieved and assessed for eligibility. Eight articles met the eligibility criteria, with most interventions delivered in Asia (n = 5) and using self-efficacy theory as their theoretical framework (n = 6). Most of the studies included people with diabetes (n = 6) and outcomes were measured using foot health outcomes, knowledge of foot health, and footcare behaviors and self-efficacy.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review has identified a range of footcare interventions, with evidence of promising outcomes on improving footcare in older adults. Approaches toward methods and dosage of intervention varied across the studies and more broadly, we identified that few studies report the health promotion model informing the design of intervention(s). Further research is required to ascertain which health promotion model, modality of promotion, and implementation approach are the most effective for improving footcare in older adults.

Foot care intervention delivered by community health worker (CHWs): A scoping review

Variations of Community Health Workers (CHWs) interventions in diabetes self-management education (DSME) have been reviewed by many studies. In contrast, specific interventions regarding foot care intervention (FCI) are scarce and need to be explored further as one preventive measure to reduce diabetic foot problems in the community. This scoping review aimed to identify, and report nature of FCIs and the core components of FCIs delivered by CHWs. The scoping review was undertaken using PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The following electronic databases were searched for articles from data first indicated date through December 2022: CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, Theses ProQuest, PubMed, google scholar and other sources by using search terms related to foot care, community health workers, and diabetes mellitus. Descriptive synthesis was used to summarise the data. Nine studies from 1644 were included. All studies found that CHWs provided DSME in general, and foot care education was included. There was no detailed description of the core components of the intervention on foot care. Although, all studies might not provide detailed data on how CHW provided FCIs; the CHW intervention is an undoubtedly vital strategy to promote and prevent foot problems in medically underserved communities.

"They say to me 'You want to be a high shot and be like a tourist' so I stopped wearing shoes at home even though I know it is to protect my feet". The perceptions of patients on foot complications

BACKGROUND

Diabetic Foot Ulceration (DFU) is one of the serious complications for people with diabetes and it is also the most devastating but yet preventable complication. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients on their foot complications and foot care practices in Fiji.

METHODS

A qualitative study design was used to recruit T2DM patients attending Diabetic clinic in Rotuma Hospital, Fiji from July to September, 2021. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 27 patients until data saturation is happened. Semi-structured one-on-one in-depth interviews that were audio-recorded were used to collect data which was then transcribed and manually analyzed using thematic analysis method.

RESULTS

This study found four main themes namely Knowledge and its determinants, Perceptions on personal practice and health care practice, Health seeking behaviors and Factors affecting footwear practices. T2DM patients had varying levels of knowledge about DFU and these levels of knowledge were attributed to lack of advice from healthcare providers, personal beliefs, culture and societal norms and lack of resources. Patients continued to practice self-care practices that they perceived to protect their feet from trauma and such practices have been passed down through a traditional knowledge system including stigma and beliefs. Culture and personal habits greatly impacted the practice of wearing footwear. Societal norms and traditions greatly impact how T2DM patients take care of their feet and their health in general.

CONCLUSION

Understanding personal beliefs and traditional influences surrounding the patients' environment is paramount in order to effectively implement public health prevention strategies against DFU.

"I was trying to look after myself, but I really wasn't": Understanding patient's perspectives on risk factors for lower extremity amputations

BACKGROUND

Lower extremity amputations (LEAs) as a result of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) cause considerable morbidity, mortality, and burden on the healthcare system. LEAs are thought to be preventable, yet the rate of LEAs, particularly in Australia, has risen despite the availability of preventative healthcare services. Understanding patient's perspectives of risk factors for LEAs may provide valuable insight into why many LEAs occur each year.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore patient's perspectives of risk factors for LEAs as a result of T2DM.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive methodology involving non-probability purposive sampling was used to recruit inpatients at a tertiary metropolitan hospital in South Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were transcribed verbatim. Data from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis and the constant comparison approach.

RESULTS

A total of 15 participants shared their perspectives of risk factors for lower extremity amputations. Most (86%) of participants were male and Caucasian, with a median age of 66.4 years ranging from 44-80 years. The median duration of diabetes was 25.2 years, ranging from 12-40 years. More than half of the participants had undergone a previous amputation with 86% being unemployed or retired and 73% living in metropolitan Adelaide. Two main themes emerged: competing priorities and awareness. Finance and family care were identified as subthemes within competing priorities. While subthemes in the context of awareness related to lack of awareness of risk, experiences with health care professionals and perspectives of disease severity.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this research indicate that addressing risk factors for LEAs for patients with T2DM require a holistic and nuanced approach which considers individual patient's circumstances, and its influence on how risks are viewed and managed.

Diabetes management behaviors associated with depression in the U.S

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of nationally representative evidence from the U.S. investigating the relationships between depression and diabetes management behaviors. Our study aimed to assess the associations between diabetes management behaviors and depression status, and to compare U.S. population-level percentages of diabetes management behaviors among patients with and without depression.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using population-based survey data to assess patient-reported variables retrospectively. We used the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data and included states in the U.S. that continuously adopted the diabetes optional modules in 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019. We included U.S. adults (≥ 18 years old) with self-reported diabetes in our analysis. Main outcomes were diabetes management behaviors (i.e., self-check for blood glucose and feet sores/irritation, regular diabetes clinical visit, HbA1c check, professional feet check, and dilated eye examination) and lifestyle behaviors (i.e., exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption).

RESULTS

Among the 74,011 respondents with diabetes, patients with depression had a higher likelihood of performing routine HbA1c checks (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.12; 95% CI 1.01-1.23) but had a lower likelihood to perform regular self-check for blood glucose (AOR = 0.91; 95% CI 0.84-0.99), receive professional feet checks (AOR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.79-0.95), and receive a dilated eye examination (AOR = 0.89; 95% CI 0.82-0.98). For lifestyle behaviors, patients with depression were more likely to smoke (No smoking (AOR) = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.59-0.72) and less likely to engage in sufficient exercise time (AOR = 0.69; 95% CI 0.63-0.75). There were no significant associations between depression and other behaviors, including self-check for feet sores/irritation (AOR = 0.99; 95% CI 0.92-1.08), regular diabetes clinical visit (AOR = 1.03, 95% CI 0.94-1.13), and alcohol consumption (AOR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.92-1.10).

CONCLUSIONS

The association between depression status and diabetes management behaviors varied. People with depression were positively associated with HbA1c checks. However, less uptake of other behaviors may indicate the needs for improvement in diabetes management.

Qualitative exploration of patient and healthcare professional perspectives on barriers and facilitators to foot self-care behaviors in diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic foot ulcers contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes, but are preventable with good foot self-care. This study sought to explore the perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) on barriers and/or facilitators to foot self-care behaviors in diabetes and areas of consensus and/or tension between patient and HCP perspectives.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a sequential, qualitative study that used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. Phase I involved nine in-depth, semi-structured patient interviews. Phase II involved seven in-depth semi-structured interviews with HCPs (podiatrists, diabetes nurses, foot health practitioners (FHPs) and general practitioners (GPs)). In phase III, findings from phases I and II were brought back to two patient interview groups (five patients in total) to try and identify any areas of consensus and tension between HCP and patient perspectives.

RESULTS

Patient and HCP perspectives had several areas of alignment: concerns over consequences of diabetes complications; the importance of patient education and frustrations around aspects of health service delivery. There were also some notable tensions identified: mixed messaging from HCPs around whose responsibility patient foot health is; and who patients should initially consult following the development of a foot problem. Overall, patients expressed that motivation to undertake good foot self-care behaviors was generated from their lived experiences, and was enhanced when this aligned with the information they received from HCPs. HCPs appeared to attribute lack of patient motivation to lack of knowledge, which was not raised by patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has identified points of misalignment between the views of patients and practitioners that may help to explain why adherence to foot self-care among patients with diabetes is low. Our results suggest that better outcomes may stem from HCPs focusing on supporting autonomous motivation for self-care and enhancing the rationale through referencing patients' own experience rather than focussing on increasing patient knowledge. Renewed focus on consistency of messaging by HCPs around the roles and responsibilities relating to foot health in diabetes, and the benefit of foot-specific training being provided to non-foot specialist HCPs may also help to improve uptake and adherence to foot self-care behaviors in diabetes.

Foot self-care behaviour in type 2 diabetes adults with and without comorbid heart failure

AIMS

To compare the correlates of foot self-care behaviours among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) adults with and without comorbid heart failure (HF).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional, correlational, comparative design.

METHODS

A 210 T2D adults (105 with HF and 105 without HF) participated from August-December 2020. Foot self-care behaviour was measured using the foot care subscale of the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) instrument. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to explore variables predicting foot self-care behaviour.

RESULTS

The participants' mean age was 58.7 ± 10.9 years. Poor foot self-care behaviour was reported in T2D adults both with (53.3%) and without (54.3%) HF. Participants with HF-comorbidity were statistically significantly older and had higher total daily medication intake. Household income and the total number of daily medications statistically significantly predicted foot self-care behaviour in HF-comorbid T2D adults. Marital status, social support and body mass index predicted foot self-care behaviour in the non-HF group.

Healthcare workers' perceptions on diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and foot care in Fiji: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To explore the perception of healthcare workers (HCWs) on diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and foot care in Rotuma, Fiji.

DESIGN

Using a qualitative study design, two focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among HCWs. A semistructured open-ended questionnaire was used to guide the discussion session. Each FGD was audiorecorded and was transcribed. The transcriptions were then manually analysed using thematic analysis.

SETTING

Rotuma hospital, Fiji.

PARTICIPANTS

HCWs who were working in Rotuma hospital for at least a year and were involved in clinical foot care of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients were included.

RESULTS

There were five main themes, namely, depth of knowledge, quality of care in practice, factors of influence on practice, lack of resources and capacity building. Participants had superficial knowledge that showed lack of in-depth scientific knowledge. A lack of staffing in the clinics affected the delivery of service. Additionally, patients defaulting clinics, late presentations with DFU and traditional medicine also affected the quality of healthcare service in clinics. There was also a need for a multidisciplinary team to prevent and manage DFU. HCWs mostly advised on glycaemic control and ignored offering foot care advice in clinics due mainly to the lack of sound knowledge on foot care. There was also a lack of resources, infrastructure, space and professional development opportunities, which negatively impacted how HCWs deliver foot care services to patients.

CONCLUSION

HCWs lack significant in-depth knowledge on DFU and foot care. In addition, these are the availability of traditional medicine that delays presentations to hospital, further reducing the quality of services. HCWs need to keep their knowledge and skills updated through regular in-service training on foot care. Resources, infrastructure and supply chains need to be maintained by those in power to ensure HCWs deliver quality foot care services.

Social Aspects of Diabetic Foot: A Scoping Review

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Patients with DFU have increased mortality and morbidity as well as decreased quality of life (QoL). The present scoping review aims to study the social issues of diabetic foot. Following PRISMA guidelines, the review was conducted in two databases (Scopus and Pubmed) with the use of the following keywords: “social aspects and diabetic foot”, “social characteristics and diabetic foot”, “social issues and diabetic foot”, “demographic profiles and diabetic foot”, “social determinants and diabetic foot”, “social capital and diabetic foot”, “social characteristics and gender and diabetic foot”, “social profiles and diabetic foot”, “social relationships and diabetic foot” and “social risk and diabetic foot”, from July to August 2021. Predetermined exclusion and inclusion criteria were selected. Forty-five studies (quantitative and qualitative) were eligible for inclusion in this review. Gender problems, socioeconomic status, social capital, and medical problems were the most important negative variables for diabetic foot. All the included variables reveal that the social impact of diabetic foot is the most important factor for management and prevention, in terms of aggravation and more, of the diabetic foot.

Exploring Foot Care Conditions for People Experiencing Homelessness: A Community Participatory Approach

Introduction:

People experiencing homelessness are faced with complex challenges and are at high risk of illness due to inequities and disparities in access to health care services.

Objective:

To explore the health and foot care problems related to people experiencing homelessness in British Columbia.

Methods:

A community participatory research approach was used with a sample of 65 people experiencing homelessness. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire and face-to-face semistructured interviews.

Results:

Thematic findings shows risk of foot injuries, lack of foot care resources, and absence of family support. Barriers to equitable access to services for most participants experiencing homelessness were lack of housing (76.92%), inability to work (72.31%), and inability to afford the cost of living on their own (63.08%).

Conclusions:

There is a pressing need for early screening and detection by health care professionals and enhanced foot care services to reduce foot problems and improve foot care wellness of homeless people. Addressing foot-related care are necessary steps in promoting health, preventing illness, and improving access to health services among people experiencing homelessness.

Quality of Life and Self-care Activities in Diabetic Ulcer Patients, Grade 3: Gender Differences

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus associated with increased morbidity and mortality and diminished quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to explore the effect of gender differences on QoL and adherence to self-care activities.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 135 male and 135 female patients with DFU. Data was collected using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and a questionnaire that measured self-care activities (Diet, Exercise, Blood Examination, and Foot Check). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.

Results: In terms of QoL, male participants had moderate to high levels in the categories of energy/fatigue, emotional well-being, social functioning, and bodily pain, whereas they had low levels in physical functioning, physical role, and emotional role. Female patients had moderate QoL in the categories of energy/fatigue and social functioning, whereas they had low QoL in physical functioning, physical role, emotional role, emotional well-being, and bodily pain. Finally, regarding general health, male participants had moderate QoL and females had moderate to low QoL. Both males and females had low adherence to exercise and high in blood-examinations. For both genders, adherence to exercise had a statistically significant association with all sub-categories of QoL apart from those of role (physical and emotional).

Conclusion: It is essential for health care professionals to provide gender-specific approaches in treatment of ulceration.

The Perspectives of Patients with Chronic Diseases and Their Caregivers on Self-Management Interventions: A Scoping Review of Reviews

BACKGROUND

Self-management (SM) interventions are supportive interventions systematically provided by healthcare professionals, peers, or laypersons to increase the skills and confidence of patients in their ability to manage chronic diseases. We had two objectives: (1) to summarise the preferences and experiences of patients and their caregivers (informal caregivers and healthcare professionals) with SM in four chronic diseases and (2) to identify and describe the relevant outcomes for SM interventions from these perspectives.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-methods scoping review of reviews. We searched three databases until December 2020 for quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods reviews exploring patients' and caregivers' preferences or experiences with SM in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart failure (HF). Quantitative data were narratively synthesised, and qualitative data followed a three-step descriptive thematic synthesis. Identified themes were categorised into outcomes or modifiable factors of SM interventions.

RESULTS

We included 148 reviews covering T2DM (n = 53 [35.8%]), obesity (n = 20 [13.5%]), COPD (n = 32 [21.6%]), HF (n = 38 [25.7%]), and those with more than one disease (n = 5 [3.4%]). We identified 12 main themes. Eight described the process of SM (disease progression, SM behaviours, social support, interaction with healthcare professionals, access to healthcare, costs for patients, culturally defined roles and perceptions, and health knowledge), and four described their experiences with SM interventions (the perceived benefit of the intervention, individualised care, sense of community with peers, and usability of equipment). Most themes and subthemes were categorised as outcomes of SM interventions.

CONCLUSION

The process of SM shaped the perspectives of patients and their caregivers on SM interventions. Their perspectives were influenced by the perceived benefit of the intervention, the sense of community with peers, the intervention's usability, and the level of individualised care. Our findings can inform the selection of patient-important outcomes, decision-making processes, including the formulation of recommendations, and the design and implementation of SM interventions.

Patients' knowledge of diabetes foot complications and self-management practices in Ghana: A phenomenological study

Background

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) and over two-thirds of these are not diagnosed. Consequently, diabetes complications usually exist at the time of diagnosis. Foot ulcers is a leading cause of disability and mortality among diabetes patients.

Purpose

To assess the knowledge and experiences of adult patients with Diabetes on diabetes complications and self-management practices with emphasis on foot care.

Methodology

This applied phenomenological study design. Twenty patients attending Diabetes clinics were purposively sampled from two hospitals in Ghana. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted to evaluate patient’s understanding of diabetes and self-management practices. The interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and analysed to generate themes using the constant comparison method.

Results

Three-quarters of the participants in the study correctly defined diabetes as high blood glucose levels, but few knew the risk factors and complications of diabetes. Stroke and Hypertension were the most popular complications known, whiles diabetes foot complications were the least known. Almost all participants showed awareness of dietary self-management practices, but few had limited knowledge in foot care practices.

Conclusion

Diabetes education in LMICs should promote self-management practices, especially foot care and clear dietary guidelines. There is also opportunity to invest in specialist diabetes training for healthcare providers and increase community-based care for people living with diabetes in Ghana.

Towards Equitable Health Care Access: Community Participatory Research Exploring Unmet Health Care Needs of Homeless Individuals

Community and health services often overlook health care needs of persons experiencing homelessness, which leads to deterioration in health and increased utilization of emergency services. Since homeless people are underrepresented in health service research, little is known about their unmet health care needs, particularly in smaller cities where resources are limited. This community-based participatory research explored the experiences of small-city homeless service users (HSUs) with unmet health care needs and community service providers (CSPs) who work with them to determine barriers to health care access affecting them. Structured interviews were conducted with 65 HSUs and 15 CSPs in interior British Columbia, Canada. These interviews were audio-recorded, and the retrieved data were analyzed thematically. The three themes uncovered included: a lack of access to health care and risk of stigma, a lack of trust and fear of discrimination, and a need for community navigation and social support. The findings indicate that HSUs do not receive equitable care and face challenges in accessing appropriate and timely foot care, which contributes to increased foot-related emergency visits, loss of trust in the health care system, and disabilities due to worsening foot conditions. Various social determinants of health also impact HSUs, such as low socioeconomic status, lack of housing, decreased social support, unhealthy behaviors, and inequitable access to health services. By collaborating with HSUs, community and health services need to develop innovative outreach programs that provide better community resources as the first step toward equitable access to health care.

Factors influencing diabetes self-management in adults: an umbrella review of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review was to identify and describe the factors influencing diabetes self-management in adults by summarizing the available evidence concerning their types, categories, and relative importance.

INTRODUCTION

A wide range of factors, acting simultaneously, influence diabetes self-management and interfere with its actual application by patients. There is a variety of systematic reviews of these factors; however, a more thorough examination of their influences was lacking.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Systematic reviews of qualitative or quantitative literature focusing on factors influencing adult diabetes self-management in general or on individual behaviors (ie, management of oral antidiabetic medication and insulin injections, self-monitoring of blood glucose, foot care, healthy eating, regular exercise, and smoking cessation) will be included.

METHODS

We performed an extensive search of 11 bibliographic databases, including gray literature, up to June 2019. Quantitative and qualitative findings were summarized separately and labeled according to their types (eg, facilitator/barrier, strength and direction of association), categories (eg, demographic, social), and frequency of occurrence.

RESULTS

We identified 51 types of factors within 114 systematic reviews, which mostly addressed medication-taking behavior. Thirty-two (62.7%) factors were reported in both qualitative and quantitative literature. The predominant influences were psychological factors and behavioral attributes/skills factors. The most frequently reported facilitators of diabetes self-management were motivation to diabetes self-management, a favorable attitude to diabetes self-management, knowledge about the disease, medication and behaviors associated with diabetes self-management, skills, and self-efficacy/perceived behavioral control. The predominant barriers were the presence of depression, and polypharmacy or drug regimen complexity. The demographic factor of female sex was frequently reported for its negative influence on diabetes self-management, whereas older age was a positive factor. The social/cultural and physical environment were the least-studied categories. Other factors such as social support from family, friends, or networks; interventions led by health professionals; and a strong community environment with good social services favoring diabetes self-management were reported as major facilitators of diabetes self-management.

CONCLUSIONS

Essential components of interventions to promote effective diabetes self-management should aim to help adults manage the effects of specific factors related to their psychological and practical self-management experience. Screening for depression, in particular, should become an integral part of the support for adult diabetes self-management, as depression is a particular obstacle to the effectiveness of diabetes self-management. Future studies should more deeply examine the influence of factors identified in the sociocultural and physical environment categories. Research should properly consider and invest efforts in strengthening social support and innovative community care approaches, including pharmacist- and nurse-led care models for encouraging and improving adult diabetes self-management. Finally, researchers should examine non-modifiable factors - age, sex, or socioeconomic status - in the light of factors from other categories in order to deepen understanding of their real-world patterns of action on adult diabetes self-management.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42018084665.

Patient, Support-Person and Health-Care Provider Perspectives on Foot Self-Management for Adults With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: Personal Challenges

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of self-management of feet for patients with diabetes from the perspective of the patient, support person and health-care provider.

METHODS

The qualitative method, Interpretive Description, was used to guide data collection and analysis. Semistructured interviews were completed with 11 patients, 4 support persons and 9 health-care providers.

RESULTS

The overarching theme was that self-management of diabetes and specifically foot health is complex. Six subthemes were identified. Four confirmed what is known in the literature: knowledge of foot self-management, physical ability to provide foot care, footwear and support. The remaining 2 subthemes, readiness to self-manage feet and communicating between patients and health-care providers, offered new insights in relation to self-management of foot health.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings have major implications for clinical practice, which can be categorized as the 3Rs: rapport, readiness and reinforcement. Rapport with patients and support persons is vital in creating an environment where foot health concerns can be addressed. Readiness to self-manage foot health is an important factor; health-care providers can capitalize on a patient's level of readiness, regularly tailoring foot education to a patient's needs. Reinforcement of positive foot health with patients and support persons is an important strategy for all health-care providers.

Patterns and associated factors of diabetes self-management: Results of a latent class analysis in a German population-based study

OBJECTIVE

Few studies on diabetes self-management considered the patterns and relationships of different self-management behaviours (SMB). The aims of the present study are 1) to identify patterns of SMB among persons with diabetes, 2) to identify sociodemographic and disease-related predictors of SMB among persons with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The present analysis includes data of 1,466 persons (age 18 to 99 years; 44.0% female; 56.0% male) with diabetes (type I and II) from the population-based study German Health Update 2014/2015 (GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS). We used latent class analysis in order to distinguish different patterns of self-management behaviours among persons with diabetes. The assessment of SMB was based on seven self-reported activities by respondents (dietary plan, diabetes-diary, diabetes health pass, self-assessment of blood glucose, self-examination of feet, retinopathy-screenings and assessment of HbA1c). Subsequent multinomial latent variable regressions identified factors that were associated with self-management behaviour.

RESULTS

Latent class analysis suggested a distinction between three patterns of SMB. Based on modal posterior probabilities 42.8% of respondents showed an adherent pattern of diabetes self-management with above-average frequency in all seven indicators of SMB. 32.1% showed a nonadherent pattern with a below-average commitment in all seven forms of SMB. Another 25.1% were assigned to an ambivalent type, which showed to be adherent with regard to retinopathy screenings, foot examinations, and the assessment of HbA1c, yet nonadherent with regard to all other forms of SMB. In multivariable regression analyses, participation in Diabetes Self-Management Education programs (DSME) was the most important predictor of good self-management behaviour (marginal effect = 51.7 percentage points), followed by attentiveness towards one's personal health (31.0 percentage points). Respondents with a duration of illness of less than 10 years (19.5 percentage points), employed respondents (7.5 percentage points), as well as respondents with a high socioeconomic status (24.7 percentage points) were more likely to show suboptimal forms of diabetes self-management.

DISCUSSION

In the present nationwide population-based study, a large proportion of persons with diabetes showed suboptimal self-management behaviour. Participation in a DSME program was the strongest predictor of good self-management. Results underline the need for continual and consistent health education for patients with diabetes.

´Feet are second class citizens`: exploring the perceptions of Scottish and Portuguese older adults about feet, falls and exercise- a qualitative study

Introduction

Foot problems are likely to contribute to falls risk in older adults. Foot and ankle exercises may be beneficial, but uptake may be influenced by cultural factors. Few studies have explored the views of older adults from different cultural backgrounds about foot-specific falls risk factors, and foot and ankle falls prevention exercises.

Objectives

To explore the views of Scottish and Portuguese community-dwelling older adults who have experienced a fall, about any foot risk factors for falls, and foot and ankle exercises.

Methods

Cross-cultural qualitative study with (n = 6) focus groups exploring the perceptions of Scottish (n = 10, mean age 76 yrs) and Portuguese older adults (n = 14, mean age 66 years) aged, applying thematic analysis.

Results

One main theme `evolving awareness about feet and falls prevention´ and three subthemes; (i) Feet are often forgotten, (ii) the important role of footwear, (iii) need to look at my feet and do the exercises were identified. Scottish participants had more experience of falls prevention but there was a lack of knowledge surrounding foot-specific falls risk factors, and the role of ankle and foot exercise in the prevention of falls. Portuguese participants exhibited a fatalistic approach to falls.

Conclusions

Older adults from both nations had little knowledge of foot-specific falls risk factors, being initially unaware of the functional status of their feet and of the role of exercise in foot care and falls management. There were differences between national groups that should be accounted for when developing culturally adequate interventions.

I Cannot Afford Off-loading Boots: Perceptions of Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Engagement in Self-management of Diabetic Foot Ulcer

This study aimed at uncovering the factors influencing individuals' ability to engage in self-management of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and presenting a theoretical model depicting these factors and the outcomes. We used constructivist grounded theory methodology to guide this study and recruited 30 participants with an active DFU attending a wound care clinic in Ontario, Canada. The study's findings indicate that participants' engagement in self-management of DFU was influenced by internal and external factors. While some factors contributed to enhance participants' engagement in everyday self-management, others seemed to have prevented them from achieving engagement and hence the desired DFU outcomes.

Associations Between Racial and Ethnic Groups and Foot Self-Inspection in People With Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Daily foot self-inspection may permit earlier detection and treatment of a foot lesion, reducing the risk of infection and lower-limb amputation (LLA). Though race and ethnicity are strongly associated with LLA risk, with higher risk seen in African Americans (AA), American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/AN), and Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders (NH/PI), associations between foot self-inspection and racial and ethnic groups are inconsistent. We aimed to assess differences in foot self-inspection among people with diabetes by race/ethnicity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using national, cross-sectional data from the 2015-2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys and including 88,424 individuals with diabetes, we estimated prevalence ratios (PRs) and associated 95% CIs of daily foot checking for sores or irritation by racial and ethnic groups using log-binomial linear regression models, after accounting for survey weights.

RESULTS

Compared with whites (who had a weighted prevalence [P] of daily foot self-inspection of 57%), AA (P 67%, PR 1.18 [95% CI 1.14, 1.23]), AI/AN (P 66%, PR 1.15 [95% CI 1.07, 1.25]), and NH/PI (P 71%, PR 1.25 [95% CI 1.03, 1.52]) had higher prevalences of daily foot self-inspection. The prevalence of daily foot inspection was significantly lower among Asians (P 35%, PR 0.62 [95% CI 0.48, 0.81]) and Hispanics (P 53%, PR 0.93 [95% CI 0.88, 0.99]) compared with whites. Associations did not vary importantly by insulin use, years since diabetes diagnosis, or having received diabetes self-management education.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher frequency of foot self-inspection in racial and ethnic groups at elevated risk of diabetes-related LLA is not sufficient to eliminate LLA disparities; additional interventions are needed to achieve this aim.

Development and testing of a new electronic foot health promotion programme on nurses' foot self-care

Background

Nurses form the largest professional group in health care, and they spend most of their working day on their feet. From the perspective of work well-being, healthy feet are important to tolerate the physical demands of nursing work. However, little is known about how nurses’ foot self-care practices can be promoted with computerised interventions. The aim of this study was two-fold: to explore the preliminary effects of the electronic Foot Health Promotion Programme (FHPP) on foot self-care in nurses and to examine the usability of the programme.

Methods

A single group pretest-posttest design was used. The FHPP was targeted at nurses working in the operating theatre. The FHPP lasted for 4 weeks and focused on improving nurses’ knowledge and awareness of foot self-care through self-directed learning tasks. The primary outcome was knowledge of foot self-care. The secondary outcomes were foot health and work ability. Thirty-seven participants completed the study. The outcomes were assessed at baseline (April–June 2017) and 4 weeks (August–September 2017) after the intervention ended. The data were analysed statistically.

Results

Participants’ knowledge of foot self-care and foot health improved; however, the changes were not statistically significant. The FHPP was considered to be usable and has potential as a tool to increase knowledge of foot self-care among nurses.

Conclusions

The FHPP developed in this study is a newly developed potential tool to increase nurses’ knowledge of foot self-care. Application of the FHPP as part of occupational health care may enhance nursing personnel’s foot self-care and lower extremity health.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03116451, 17.4.2017.

Educating patients of diabetes mellitus for diabetic foot care

Background and Purpose

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global pandemic. Among the spectrum of diabetic complications, diabetic foot is a leading cause of morbidity and hence awareness and education regarding primary healthcare inclusive of self-care pertaining to diabetic foot care is of paramount importance.

Aim

The aim of the study was to educate patients of DM regarding the disease and its associated complications, specifically pertaining to diabetic foot care.

Methodology

The study was carried out in three phases, first was to assess the diabetic patients related to their awareness on disease complications and diabetic foot care, through pretest questionnaire, the second phase was to sensitize patients and educate them on the same, the third phase was to re assess the knowledge gained by the patients through posttest assessment.

Results

The study evaluated the absolute and relative learning gain regarding the awareness and knowledge of foot care among diabetic individuals. The absolute learning gain was 40.92% and the relative learning gain was 76.48% and normalized learning gain was 0. 88, the normalized gain was assessed to be high.

Conclusion

The study concluded that training and sensitizing individuals with diabetes will definitely help reduce morbidity of diabetic foot and hence the medical and paramedical staff need to spread awareness regards the same.

Self-care of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus over the course of illness: implications for tailoring support

Purpose

Type 2 diabetes requires patients to make lifestyle changes and perform daily self-care. To determine at what stages patients may need particular self-management support, we examined (1) whether patients' performance of self-care related to their diabetes duration, and (2) whether illness characteristics (treatment and complications) and diabetes-related distress influenced this relationship.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from 590 type 2 diabetes patients were analysed through linear and logistic regression analysis. Self-care behaviours were assessed by the revised Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) measure. Diabetes duration (model 1), treatment and complications (model 2), and distress, as assessed by the Problem Areas In Diabetes (PAID) scale (model 3), were stepwise included. Sociodemographic characteristics were added to all models to account for confounding.

Results

Patients with a longer history of diabetes were less physically active, but monitored their blood glucose levels more frequently than more recently diagnosed patients. These relationships were mediated by the presence of complications and the use of insulin, with lower levels of physical activity being found among patients with macrovascular complications and higher frequencies of glucose monitoring among patients on insulin. All predictors together explained maximally 5% of the variance in self-care, except for glucose monitoring (37%) and smoking (11%).

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes patients' self-care activity changes over the course of illness. To provide tailored self-management support, diabetes care providers should take into account patients' phase of illness, including their treatment and complications, as well as their personal characteristics and distress level.

Diabetic foot self-care and concordance of 3diabetic foot risk stratification systems in a basic health area of Gran Canaria

OBJECTIVE

To assess the level of self-care in the population with diabetes and determine the risk of diabetic foot lesions through the use of 3stratification systems as well as to establish the degree of concordance between these systems.

METHOD

Observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study carried out in the Basic Health Area of Santa Brígida (Gran Canaria-Canary Islands-Spain) in people diagnosed with diabetes (DM Type 1/DM Type 2) (n=182). Interview, physical examination, review of clinical history and completion of the Diabetic Foot Self-Care questionnaire of the University of Malaga were carried out. The risk stratification was then calculated using 3systems (System of the National Institute for Health Care Excellence, Classification of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot and High-Risk Diabetic Foot-60-Second Tool©-2012). The Kappa index was calculated to study the concordance between systems, the relative risk of negative screening of one method against another was estimated and the exact Fisher test to establish whether there were differences.

RESULTS

30.2% of diabetics had a low level of self-care, 45.1% a medium level and 24.7% a high level. The risk levels calculated were: National Institute for Health Care Excellence Classification (Negative Risk 71.4%-Positive Risk 28.6%), International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot Classification (Negative Risk 67.0%-Positive Risk 33.0%) and High-Risk Diabetic Foot-60-Second Tool© (Negative Risk 62.6%-Positive Risk 37.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

All 3systems have good concordance with each other. The High-Risk Diabetic Foot-60-Second Tool© only distinguishes 2levels of risk but detects a higher percentage of people at risk. The Diabetic Foot Self-Care questionnaire of the University of Malaga may be useful in the context of Primary Care to assess the level of self-care of people with diabetes.

Knowledge and practice of diabetic foot care in Sudan: A cross sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Diabetes in Sudan is real health challenge for health authorities especially optimum glycemic control and complications in particular diabetic septic foot. This is study aimed to assess knowledge of individuals with diabetes about self-foot care.

METHODS

This is descriptive cross sectional, health facility-based study conducted in diabetes center in Khartoum, Sudan. The study recruited 150 individuals with diabetes. Data was collected using a standardized pretested questionnaire.

RESULTS

Among the participants 64.7% were females and 35.3% were males, 36% of the participants were between the age of 51-60 years old. Good glycemic control (HbA1c) were achieved by 41.3% only. The participants who had good knowledge about diabetic foot self-care were 46.7%, poor knowledge 29.3% and moderate knowledge 24%. Good self-practice toward diabetic foot self-care was reported by 42.6%, moderate by 36.7% and poor practice by 20.7%. The awareness and practices significantly correlated with an increase in ages (≥51 years), higher level of education, medium income, unemployment, longer duration of diabetes > 10years, family history, controlled diabetes mellitus and education about diabetes complications and diabetic foot care (P value < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Only (46.7%) of participants address good awareness and practices about self-foot care. Accordingly, there is a great need to provide continuous health education to the patients about diabetic foot self-care and this knowledge-application gap must be narrowed down.

Reasons for (non-)adherence to self-care in people with a diabetic foot ulcer

We aimed to explore reasons for (non-)adherence to self-care among people with diabetic foot ulcers, as well as barriers and solutions to improving their self-care adherence. We performed a qualitative study, recruiting people with a diabetic foot ulcer from a community diabetic foot clinic. Semistructured interviews were held with participants. Data saturation occurred after 9 and was confirmed after 11 participant interviews. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using the framework approach. Findings were mapped and the World Health Organization's (WHO) adherence dimensions were applied to themes identified. The key themes identified were (1) participants performed recommended practices in self-care; (2) participants relied heavily on care support; (3) motivations for self-care came from "staying well"; and (4) there was a disparity between self-care knowledge and understanding. Barriers identified included poor mobility and visibility, difficulty wearing offloading devices or using wound dressings, and frustration with lack of progress. Solutions to improve adherence included integrating self-care as routine, improved education, more external help and improving visibility. All five WHO adherence dimensions played a role in (non-)adherence to diabetic foot ulcer self-care. We conclude that adherence to recommended diabetic foot ulcer self-care was limited at best, and reasons for nonadherence were multidimensional. Based on the factors related to (non-)adherence and the barriers and solutions described, we suggest clinicians obtain a broad view of a person's situation when aiming to improve self-care adherence.

An educational intervention on foot self-care behaviour among diabetic retinopathy patients with visual disability and their primary caregivers

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of a 12-week educational intervention on foot self-care behaviour among diabetic retinopathy patients with visual disability and their primary caregivers in China.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes with the coexistence of diabetic retinopathy and foot problems complicating diabetes not only represents a personal disaster, but also becomes a serious burden to public health in China. A foot self-care educational intervention is both cost-effective and feasible even in a health resource-limited setting, which should be developed and evaluated.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental.

METHODS

From July-September 2017, we enrolled 80 eligible hospitalised diabetic retinopathy patients and their primary caregivers by convenient sampling method in a first-class comprehensive hospital in Nantong, in China. Before and after the educational intervention that is in accordance with the TREND statement (for details, see the "Supplementary File 1"), researchers and subjects filled out the self-designed questionnaire on foot problems complicating diabetes and the Diabetic Foot Self-care Behavior Scale, respectively.

RESULTS

Scores of foot self-care behaviour among the subjects significantly improved from 54.19 ± 8.01-75.85 ± 5.04. The number of patients with fasting blood glucoses <7.0 mmol/L improved from 43 (53.75%)-80 (100%). The results of incidence of foot problems complicating diabetes were not statistically significant. The complete execution of each item in Diabetic Foot Self-care Behavior Scale of subjects was apparently higher.

CONCLUSIONS

This educational intervention can facilitate positive foot self-care behaviours among the diabetic retinopathy patients with visual disability and their primary caregivers in China.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study adds to the evidence of the effectiveness of an educational intervention to foster positive foot self-care behaviours. This educational intervention appears to be prospective in promoting diabetic home-based self-management in China, and the delivery method of the intervention may be applied to other chronic diseases.

Challenges of foot self-care in older people: a qualitative focus-group study

Background

Foot health is an important aspect of general health, and it can be maintained and promoted through foot self-care. However, little is known about older people’s experiences of caring for their feet. The aim of this study was to gather knowledge about experiences of foot self-care from the perspective of healthy older people in order to improve their welfare and their management of foot health.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive design with focus groups was used. Seventeen older people recruited from daytime activity centres participated in the focus groups (n = 4). The data were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Results

The participants described their foot self-care as including various activities, but they were hindered by the following factors: physical (e.g. changes in nail structure), external (e.g. seeking help from multi-level professionals) and internal (e.g. related to ageing). Foot self-care was considered to be important, but it was not systematically carried out. The participants thought that health-care professionals neglected patients’ feet.

Conclusions

Older people use a variety of methods to care for their feet. However, several factors hinder their ability to do so. Older people need advice, education and support to maintain their foot health. Future research is needed to identify effective ways to support older people in foot self-care and improve their welfare as active citizens.

Factors influencing self-management in adults with diabetes: an umbrella review protocol

REVIEW OBJECTIVES

The aim of this umbrella review is to identify and describe factors influencing diabetes self-management (DSM) in adults with diabetes. More specifically, we will address DSM-related factors and their relationships, considering both qualitative and quantitative components of available literature.The review question for the qualitative component of the umbrella review is:The review questions for the quantitative component of the umbrella review are:An additional question will be applied to both the qualitative and quantitative components of the overview.

A foot-care program to facilitate self-care by the elderly: a non-randomized intervention study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate a foot-care awareness program designed to improve foot morphology, physical functioning, and fall prevention among the community-dwelling elderly. Eleven independent community-dwelling elderly women (aged 61-83 years) were provided with foot-care advice and shown effective foot-care techniques to perform regularly for 6 months, and compared with a control group of 10 elderly women who did not receive any intervention. Measurements of foot form, functional capacity, subjective foot movement, and physical function were taken at baseline and 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

At follow-up, improvements were seen in the intervention group in foot morphology, subjective foot movement, foot pressure, and balance. In the intervention group, 90% of women had maintained or improved foot form and none of them had fallen during the post-intervention period, compared to the control group where 30% improved foot form (p = 0.0075) and four (40%) of them had fallen. Therefore, a foot-care program may have the potential to prevent falls and improve mobility among the elderly. Trial Registration UMIN-CTR No. UMIN000029632. Date of Registration: October 19, 2017.

Illness perception, risk perception and health promotion self-care behaviors among Chinese patient with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional survey

AIM

To explore illness perception and perceived risk of developing diabetes complications in relation to health-promoting self-care behaviors among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes.

BACKGROUND

Illness and risk perceptions are important determinants of various health behaviors. However, few studies have simultaneously examined the impacts of these two constructs on self-care among diabetic patients.

METHODS

Data were collected on participants' characteristics, illness perception, risk perception, and health-promoting self-care behaviors over 6months among 304 subjects from three general hospitals.

RESULTS

Significant associations between illness perception and risk perception were observed. Illness perception and/or risk perception explained an independent, small but significant proportion of the variance in each health-promoting self-care behavior.

CONCLUSION

One's perceptions of illness and future risk might be influential in understanding health-promoting self-care among diabetic patients. It may be useful to improve self-management by tailoring intervention content to individuals' illness-related perceptions.

Knowledge and Practice of Diabetic Foot Care in Patients with Diabetes at Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center

Objective

The objective of this study is to measure the level of knowledge and practice of diabetic foot self-care and determine the factors that affect the level and knowledge and practice of diabetic foot self-care among among patients with diabetes..

Methodology

Three hundred thirty adult patients with diabetes at the outpatient clinics were given self-administered questionnaires on knowledge and practice of diabetic foot self-care. The scores were computed based on their answers. A score of >70% was gauged as good, 50 to 70% as satisfactory and <50% as poor.

Results

Of the subjects, 82.7% had good foot care knowledge, 22.4% had good foot self-care practice, and 71% had satisfactory practice score. Patients who received diabetes education were twice as likely to have a good knowledge score (OR 2.41, 95% CI, 1.09 to 5.32; p=0.03). Compared to patients who received diabetes care in private clinics, those who attended the charity outpatient clinic were nearly three times as likely to have a good knowledge score (OR 2.8, 95% CI, 1.32 to 5.96; p=0.007). Patients with known diabetes for more than ten years and those with a family history of diabetes were 50% less likely to have good practice scores (OR 0.50, 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.90; p=0.021 and OR 0.49, 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.83; p=0.008, respectively).

Conclusion

The current state of foot care knowledge in Filipino respondents with diabetes is good but the level of foot self-care practice is only satisfactory.

Type 2 diabetes-related foot care knowledge and foot self-care practice interventions in the United States: a systematic review of the literature

Introduction

The purpose of this systematic literature review is to review published studies on foot care knowledge and foot care practice interventions as part of diabetic foot care self-management interventions.

Methods

Medline, CINAHL, CENTRAL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched. References from the included studies were reviewed to identify any missing studies that could be included. Only foot care knowledge and foot care practice intervention studies that focused on the person living with type 2 diabetes were included in this review. Author, study design, sample, intervention, and results were extracted.

Results

Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria and were classified according to randomized controlled trial (n=9), survey design (n=13), cohort studies (n=4), cross-sectional studies (n=2), qualitative studies (n=2), and case series (n=1). Improving lower extremity complications associated with type 2 diabetes can be done through effective foot care interventions that include foot care knowledge and foot care practices.

Conclusion

Preventing these complications, understanding the risk factors, and having the ability to manage complications outside of the clinical encounter is an important part of a diabetes foot self-care management program. Interventions and research studies that aim to reduce lower extremity complications are still lacking. Further research is needed to test foot care interventions across multiple populations and geographic locations.

Prevent Wounds by Conducting a Comprehensive Foot Examination and Intervention

Lower extremity wounds and falls are on the rise with the demographics and projected aging population. Diabetes and heart disease supersede cancer deaths. A basic foot exam—performed routinely on patients identified as high risk allows time for early intervention and prevention. A Certified Foot and Nail Care Nurse (CFCN) who evaluates clients on a regular basis, conducts a comprehensive lower extremity exam for loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and compromised peripheral blood flow is more likely to provide needed care in a timely manner. Why a nurse? Because nurses who have the level of education, expertise through acquired training, and are board certified are competent to assess, educate, provide intervention, and refer. Utilizing CFCNs is cost-effective and efficient. CFCN is utilized as a member of the multidisciplinary team. Nurses are educators and education is an effective method for prevention. Nurses, as the most trusted health care provider, communicate, establish rapport, and develop sustaining relationships. Utilizing the Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses’ Credentialing Board (WOCNCB) CFCN raises the standard of care substantially and reduces overall costs to life, limbs, and dollars. This innovation in practice improves outcomes, patient satisfaction, and safety while reducing hospital admissions.