Comparing the Effects of Two Teaching Methods on Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Abstract

Introduction: Some studies have reported that diabetic patients do not adhere well to the foot care recommendations. Reasons for non-adherence are less evident and the methods used in education programs may have an effect. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare the effects of lecture method and combined method of education on foot care of patients and healing rates of diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: A matched controlled trial study was conducted on a sample of 45 diabetic patients with foot ulcers. The two intervention groups were taught with similar content but different methods. Patients’ foot care and healing rates of diabetic foot ulcers were assessed at the beginning of study and after 3 months in the two training groups as well as the control group. Results: Ulcer surface was decreased by 46%, 61% and 81.6% in the control, lecture group and combined group, respectively. The ulcer depth was also decreased by 66.7%, 97.5% and 69.1% in the three groups respectively. A significant relationship was observed between the group adherence of the self-care program and the amount of decrease in the ulcer surface area (r = 0.36, p = 0.04). Conclusion: The foot care education could significantly affect the healing of diabetic foot ulcer, especially in terms of the ulcers’ surface area. Therefore, a self-care education program should be integrated in the health system to empower those living with diabetes to manage their own foot appropriately.

Keywords: Diabetic foot, Patient education, Self-care