Patient, Support Person and Healthcare Provider Perspectives on Foot Self-Management for Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: Personal Challenges

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of self-management of feet for patients with diabetes from the perspective of the patient, support person, and health care provider. Methods The qualitative method, Interpretive Description, was used to guide data collection and analysis. Semi-structured interviews were completed with 11 patients, 4 support persons, and 9 health care providers. Results The overarching theme was that self-management of diabetes and specifically foot health is complex. Six sub-themes were identified. Four confirmed what is known in the literature: knowledge of foot self-management; physical ability to provide foot care; footwear; and support. The remaining two sub-themes, readiness to self-manage feet and communicating between patients and health care providers, offered new insights related to self-management of foot health. Conclusion The findings have important implications for clinical practice that can be categorized as the 3Rs: rapport, readiness, and reinforcement. Rapport with patients and support persons is vital in creating an environment where foot health concerns can be addressed. Readiness to self-manage foot health is an important factor; health care providers can capitalize on a patient’s level of readiness, regularly tailoring foot education to a patient’s needs. Reinforcement of positive foot health with patients and support persons is an important strategy for all health care providers.