Resumen

OCHOA-VIGO, Kattia  y  PACE ANA, Emilia. Preventing feet complications in people with diabetes mellitus: A health care proposal. Rev Med Hered [online]. 2009, vol.20, n.2, pp.165-176. ISSN 1018-130X.

Objectives: to evaluate a health care proposal for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attended at two public secondary health care units, emphasizing the prevention of foot lesions. Material an method: it is a randomized clinical study, consisting of a 12-month follow up and evaluations every semester regarding diabetes knowledge; foot and footwear care; dermatologic conditions of the foot; using appropriate footwear; controlling metabolism (Glucose, HbA1C, Total Cholesterol, HDL, Triglycerides) and blood pressure. There were 101 participants, 49 of which comprised the intervention group by participating in a six-week group education program aimed at self-care. After this period, patients attended monthly individual follow-ups for foot care and continuing education. Follow-ups were held by nurses. The control group received regular health care. Results: in the first evaluation, an improvement was observed regarding variables associated with diabetes knowledge (p=0.005) and foot care (p<0.000). In the second evaluation, both variables remained stable ((p<0.000), and there was improvement in the dermatologic condition of the feet (p<0.000) and use of appropriate footwear (p=0.005). There were no changes in metabolism and blood pressure control throughout the study. Conclusion: monitoring risk factors of feet complications is important among people at low risk. Moreover, continuing education reinforcement and follow-up are essential for people with diabetes. (Rev Med Hered 2009;20:165-176).

Palabras clave : Diabetes mellitus; ulcer prevention; education; nursing.

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