Diabetes and infected foot ulcer: a survey of patients’ perceptions of care during the preoperative and postoperative periods

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcer is a serious threat to the extremities and to the individual’s survival. The most common risk factors for amputation are deep infection, plantar ulcer and gangrene.

The aim of this study was to measure inpatients’ perception of health care quality, and to identify the health care needs of people with diabetes and infected foot ulcers during the preoperative and postoperative periods.

The study design was empirical with a quantitative approach. The short form of the Quality of care from the Patient’s Perspective (Mini QPP) was used.

The results are described in four categories related to the Mini QPP model: medical technology; physical-technical conditions; identity-oriented approach; and socio-cultural atmosphere. The study participants (n=30) expressed a need for continuous information, a secure and comfortable physical environment, shared decision making, and better quality of pain management.

More research about how to improve information, the environment, shared decision making, and pain control would be desirable.

Keywords:

• chronic care
• diabetes
• foot ulcers
• infection
• information
• nursing
• pain management; preoperative care
• postoperative care
• surgery