Having the Foot at Risk: Experience Report

• Main Authors: Maria da Luz Barros, Juliana Alves, Ana Margarida Foge, Susana Cristina Silva, Kátia Furtado
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade de Évora 2016-04-01
• Series: RIASE
• Subjects: Diabetes mellitus; diabetic foot; diabetic neuropathies; quality of life
• Online Access: http://www.revistas.uevora.pt/index.php/saude_envelhecimento/article/view/132/173

Sensory changes due to neuropathy, namely those affecting the feet, make diabetic patients more prone to repeated trauma that tends to create clinically significant lesions, often with serious consequences and a considerable negative impact in well-being and quality of life. Objective: To understand the implications of diabetic foot ulcers on the daily life of patients. Methods: Experience Report resorting to informal interviews, application of the Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule. Results: Patients expressed particular concern in 4 areas: the future; tranquility in the face of disease; resources; and knowledge of risks. About the questionnaire data, the only life activity shown to be altered was mobility. Conclusions: There has been a concern to empower and inform the patient, which helps to better adapt to the transformations that will pass the course of their disease. It would be advantageous refer the patient to primary health care and nurse surveillance.