Patient engagement in foot care management among diabetes patients: a qualitative inquiry

Ramlan, Farah Husna and Firdaus, Mohd Khairul Zul Hasymi and Che Hasan, Muhammad Kamil and Saidi, Sanisah and Nik Mohd Hatta, Nik Noor Kaussar and Komariah, Maria (2025) Patient engagement in foot care management among diabetes patients: a qualitative inquiry. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 21 (Supp 6). pp. 229-236. ISSN 1675-8544 E-ISSN 2636-9346

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Abstract

Introduction: Effective patient engagement in foot care is crucial in preventing diabetic foot complications, especially among individuals with diabetes, yet adherence to proper foot care practices remains challenging due to a lack of awareness, poor self-care behaviours, limited healthcare accessibility, and cultural beliefs. This study explored the factors influencing patient engagement in foot care practices to identify barriers and facilitators that can enhance selfcare adherence and improve foot health outcomes. Method: This qualitative descriptive study explores the factors influencing patient engagement in foot care practices among individuals with diabetes. By using purposive sampling, semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted among 9 patients diagnosed with DFU at a teaching hospital in Pahang. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Colaizzi’s method was used to identify emerging themes related to patient engagement. Results: Three key themes emerged from the analysis: (1) knowledge and awareness, (2) adherence to self-care practices, and (3) barriers related to healthcare accessibility. Participants demonstrated varying levels of knowledge about diabetic foot care, with some reporting misconceptions that led to inadequate self-care practices. Limited adherence to foot care routines was influenced by behavioural factors, cultural beliefs, and inconsistent healthcare support. Additionally, lack of transportation and limited access to specialised foot care services were significant barriers to engagement. However, participants who received continuous education and support from healthcare providers reported better adherence to foot care practices. Conclusion: Enhancing healthcare accessibility and integrating culturally sensitive approaches may further support patient engagement in foot care management, ultimately reducing the risk of diabetic foot complications.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Diabetic foot, Patient engagement, Diabetic foot care, Self-care, Adherence
Subjects:	R Medicine > RT Nursing R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT87.A-Z Special topics in basic nursing care, A-Z
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Nursing Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Medical Surgical Nursing
Depositing User:	Dr Mohd Khairul Zul Hasymi Firdaus
Date Deposited:	12 Aug 2025 10:50
Last Modified:	12 Aug 2025 10:50
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/122550

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