CONOCIMIENTOS, ACTITUDES Y PRÁCTICAS PARA PREVENCIÓN DEL PIE DIABÉTICO EN PACIENTES CON DIABETES MELLITUS TIPO II QUE ACUDEN A CONSULTA EXTERNA DE LA FUNDACIÓN DONUM EN EL PERIODO AGOSTO - DICIEMBRE 2024

Abstract

Diabetic foot is a serious and frequent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (t2dm), with a significant impact on quality of life, in addition to increasing the risk of hospitalization and amputations. It represents a public health problem, especially in vulnerable populations. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (kap) regarding diabetic foot prevention in patients with t2dm treated at the outpatient clinic of the donum foundation between august and december 2024. An observational, descriptive, and crosssectional study was conducted with a sample of 201 patients. Sociodemographic factors and kap were analyzed. Percentages and frequencies were used for categorical variables, while statistical analysis was performed using epi-info 7.2 and microsoft excel 2016. The results showed that 32.3% had a good level of knowledge about diabetic foot, 45.8% had an intermediate level, and 21.9% had a poor level. Although 97.5% reported positive attitudes, preventive practices were inadequate. Most participants inspected their feet regularly, but daily moisturizing, proper nail trimming, and the use of protective footwear remained limited. Factors such as lower educational level and restricted access to healthcare significantly affected self-care. Despite favorable attitudes, deficient preventive practices increase the risk of severe complications, making it necessary to strengthen educational programs and primary healthcare with multidisciplinary teams, prioritizing vulnerable patients to improve self-care and prevent complications. These findings highlight the importance of continuous education, early detection strategies, and regular clinical follow-up to reduce diabetic foot complications, improve treatment adherence, and decrease the burden associated with diabetes complications.