Differences in foot care practice between participants at risk for and with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in community.

OBJECTIVE: The research aimed to investigate differences in foot care practice between participants at risk for and with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). METHODS: The study design was quantitative with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 150 participants included in this study. Participants at risks for DFUs were measured using the 10g Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments for detecting neuropathy and the Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Doppler for diabetic angiopathy. Data analyzed using chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: There were significant differences in foot care between the risk for DFUs and DFUs groups, especially for foot washing, footwear inspection, and footwear usage domains (p<0.01). Those in the risk for DFUs group were more frequent and better in conducting foot care than those in the DFUs group. CONCLUSIONS: Performing routine foot care practices among people diagnosed with diabetes are essential for preventing the development and infection of DFUs.