Patient perspectives on the physical, psycho-social and financial impacts of diabetic foot ulceration and amputation
Diabetes is a chronic condition which if not treated or managed can lead to chronic complications, one of them being Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) and ulceration that in turn affect the overall quality of life.
Rebecca and colleagues hence conducted a study titled “Patient perspectives on the physical, psycho-social and financial impacts of diabetic foot ulceration and amputation” and the article has been summarized below.
Objectives:
To take into consideration detailed personal profiles and insights from patients with a clinical history of DFUs to perceive patient experiences.
Methods:
The participants were selected from a tertiary referral centre that dealt with foot problem in patients with diabetes.
Patients having a history of one DFU were approached for the study and the interviews were conducted using telephone by trained staff.
Findings:
The study revealed that foot care involved a lot of complexity and amputations were a burden to the family additionally. A profound decline in ambulatory function and dependency for basic chores, financial stress due to increasing healthcare costs and loss of livelihood and lastly the emotional turmoil of enduring the condition.
The results brought into light the importance of proactive mental health assessment and support on the diagnosis of DFUs, early screening for mental health conditions and strategies to mitigate the emotional impact of DFUs on the individual and their families. Extending aid beyond the traditional healthcare system and managing financial stressors.
Limitations:
COVID-19 limited the number of patients in the study. Missed appointments, connectivity issues, poor technology, small sample size and the overpresentation of male participants were other hindrances faced in the study.
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