Factors Affecting Wound Healing and Needs among Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Suggested Nursing Guidelines

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Demonstrator, medical surgical nursing dep, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University

2 Assistant Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University

3 Lecturer of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University

10.12816/0029282

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is one of the most frightened complications of diabetes and
is the leading cause of hospitalization among diabetic patients. Aim of the study: The
present study aimed to assess factors affecting wound healing and needs among patients
with diabetic foot ulcers. Subjects& methods: Research design: Descriptive exploratory
design was utilized. Setting: The present study conducted in outpatient clinic at Zagazig
University Hospitals. Subjects: The study subject includes 70 patients with diabetic foot ulcer
as result of diabetes (40 males and 30 females). Tools of data collection: four tools were
used for collection of data, first patient's assessment sheet, the second tool was Thai stress
test (TST) questionnaire, Third tool was questionnaire sheet about patient knowledge about
diabetes mellitus and foot care, Fourth tool was questionnaire about needs of patient with
diabetic foot ulcer. Results: The study finding revealed that the mean age of the study
sample was (53.4±10) years. Also, there was statistical significant strong positive relation
between patient's knowledge and practice about diabetes. The factors that were significantly
affect ulcer healing were age, wound grade, vascular condition, infection, blood glucose,
offloading devices, and mental stress .The psychological needs and the total needs were
significantly affect diabetic foot ulcer healing. Conclusion: The study findings concluded that,
the most factors which affect ulcer healing were age, wound grade, vascular condition,
infection, blood glucose, offloading devices, and mental stress. the high needs for patient with
diabetic foot ulcer were psychological needs followed by physical and functional needs then
socioeconomic needs and spiritual needs. Recommendations: Further studies are
recommended to identify effects of educational programs on improving patient knowledge and
practice regarding care for diabetic foot ulcer.

Keywords