Family experience on the care needs relative to insulin therapy and diabetic foot prevention.

Abstract

This study aimed at describing routine insulin therapy and lower-limb lesion prevention practices used by relatives of diabetes mellitus patients. Semi-structured interviews were carried out at home, and 38 families of the municipal district of Bandeirantes, Paraná, Brazil, were included. Results revealed that relatives had good knowledge on glycemic control and diabetic foot prevention, particularly of non-medication care, with emphasis on food. Insulin therapy care is very demanding for relatives, both in emotional and technical terms. It was concluded that the quality of the relationship among family members, encouraging the patient to comply with insulin therapy and special diet, and concern with food items available at home are essential for the patient with diabetes mellitus.