Diabetic children and foot care: are we heading in the right direction?
This study investigated parents' knowledge and understanding of foot care for their child with diabetes mellitus (Type I). Thirty parents of diabetic children in four out-patient clinics within the same trust (not the author's place of work) were asked to complete a questionnaire. There was a clear lack of parental knowledge concerning the children's foot care. Only 40 per cent of the children had had their feet examined by a healthcare professional since diagnosis; a recommendation in the Diabetes UK guidelines (2000). Only sixty-three per cent of families had ever received any foot care advice, which is consistent with the results of a study by Barnett et al in 1995. Parents wanted more verbal and written foot care advice. More emphasis needs to be placed on foot care education and regular foot examinations are essential if foot ulcers and limb amputations are to be prevented in later life.
Bodimeade
Kate
K
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London.
D002648:Child; D048909:Diabetes Complications; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000639:trends*