Corbett CF. A randomized pilot study of improving foot care in home health patients with diabetes.
DIABETES EDUCATOR 2003;
29:273-82. [PMID:
12728754 DOI:
10.1177/014572170302900218]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of an educational intervention to improve patients' foot care knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care practices.
METHODS
A prospective, randomized, single center, 2-group design was used with a convenience sample of 40 home care patients from a Medicare-certified home health agency. Baseline measures of foot care knowledge, self-efficacy, and reported self-care practices were obtained at study entry and 6 weeks later to control for foot care interventions provided during routine home care services. After obtaining the 6-week baseline measures, patients who were randomized to the intervention group received individualized education about proper foot care. All patients were interviewed a third time 3 months after study entry to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.
RESULTS
The educational intervention improved patients' knowledge, confidence, and reported foot care behaviors.
CONCLUSIONS
A brief, individualized educational intervention about standard foot care topics improved patients' foot care knowledge and self-efficacy as well as reported self-care practices. Incorporating such interventions into routine home care services may enhance the quality of care and decrease the incidence of lower-extremity complications.
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