Effect of Educational Program on Knowledge and Preventive Practices Regarding Foot Ulcers among Diabetic Patients in Bangladesh

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a significant health issue among diabetic patients. Educational programs are crucial for enhancing knowledge and preventive practices related to DFU. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an educational program on knowledge and preventive practices regarding diabetic foot ulcers among diabetic patients in Bangladesh.

Methods: A quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design was implemented, featuring a six-day educational program followed by a two-week follow-up. Data collection was taken at Upazila Health Complex, Galachipa, from October to November 2023, involving 42 conveniently selected diabetic patients. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews. The program included information on knowledge and preventive practices, delivered through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations using various audio-visual aids. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, and the effect of the educational program was measured by paired sample t-test.

Results: The results indicated a significant increase in the mean knowledge score regarding diabetic foot ulcers, from a pretest score of 8.07±3.5 to a posttest score of 22.1±2.4 (p<0.001). Similarly, the mean score for preventive practices increased from 0.86±0.26 in the pretest to 1.99±0.28 in the posttest, which is also statistically significant (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The educational program was effective in enhancing both knowledge and preventive practices related to diabetic foot ulcers among diabetic patients in Bangladesh. These findings suggest the need to develop standard, rational foot ulcer prevention guidelines for diabetic patients, contributing to better management and reduction of DFU incidence.