International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 2 (March-April 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of April to publish your research paper in the issue of March-April.

Knowledge Assessment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention Among Patients at a Tertiary Care Center in India

Author(s) Dr. Mr. Vivek Viswanathan
Country India
Abstract Objective: To assess knowledge and practices regarding diabetic foot ulcer prevention among diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital in northern India, and to identify factors associated with knowledge levels.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 209 diabetic patients without current foot ulcers attending the outpatient department at Adesh Medical College and Hospital, Haryana. A systematic self-administered questionnaire measuring knowledge of diabetes, foot ulcer risk factors, and foot care behaviors was used to gather data; knowledge scores were classified as inadequate (less than 50%), average (between 50 and 75%), or adequate (more than 75%).

Results: The mean age of participants was 45.6±16.7 years with an distribution amongst male and females. Type 2 diabetes was predominant (83.4%). Despite 75% of participants demonstrating inadequate knowledge about diabetic foot care, approximately 63% practiced reasonable foot care. Most participants correctly knew that feet should be washed daily (79.5%) and with warm water (72.6%), but only 33.2% regularly inspected their feet. Patients receiving information from healthcare professionals demonstrated significantly better knowledge (p<0.01). Educational status, employment, and type of diabetes were significantly associated with knowledge levels.

Conclusion: Despite practicing reasonable foot care, diabetic patients demonstrated considerable knowledge deficits regarding foot ulcer prevention. Healthcare provider education plays a crucial role in improving knowledge. Structured educational interventions specifically targeting high-risk populations with low socioeconomic and educational backgrounds are necessary to prevent diabetic foot complications and subsequent amputations.
Keywords Diabetes mellitus; Diabetic foot; Prevention; Knowledge; Practice; Patient education; India
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 7, Issue 2, March-April 2025
Published On 2025-03-14
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i02.38934
Short DOI https://doi.org/g8937g

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