Conocimiento, actitudes y comportamiento en el autocuidado para la prevención del pie diabético. Azogues, junio-agosto 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic foot is one of the top three causes of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. It is estimated that complications related to this pathology can be reduced with preventive measures and patient education. Objective: To determine self-care knowledge, attitudes, and behavior to prevent diabetic foot. Methodology: An observational, descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted with a probabilistic sample comprising 92 individuals over 40 residing in the Azogues canton. The survey technique was employed, and the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) questionnaire was applied. Results: From the selected sample, the mean age was 61 years, of which 64.1% were female, 68.5% were married, 76.1% lived in urban areas, 93.5% did not depend on a primary caregiver, and the average time of evolution of diabetes mellitus diagnosis was 11 years. Patients have a moderate level, with 67.4% knowledge of diabetic foot self-care, 92.4% showing favorable attitudes toward prevention, and 51.1% having good practice. Conclusion: The sample under study, when applying the KAP instrument for diabetic foot self-care, presented a satisfactory knowledge level, a favorable attitude, and a good practice of behavior.