Keywords
Foot care
Journey map
Self-management
Continuous care
Qualitative research
Submitted : 2026-06-20
Accepted : 2026-07-05
Published : 2026-07-20
Abstract
Objective: To explore the full-cycle foot care experiences and real needs of patients with high-risk diabetic feet based on patient journey maps, providing a reference for optimizing the entire preventive care model and delaying the onset and progression of diabetic foot. Methods: A phenomenological research method from qualitative research was employed. From September to December 2025, 15 patients with high-risk diabetic feet were selected as the study subjects. Longitudinal semi-structured interviews were conducted on the first day of admission, the day before discharge, three months after discharge, and six months after discharge. Content analysis was used to extract themes and construct and draw a foot care journey map for patients with high-risk diabetic feet. Results: The patients’ full-cycle care experiences were summarized into three stages: examination and diagnosis, hospitalization, and home care after discharge. A total of 21 themes were extracted, revealing significant stage-specific differences in care tasks, emotional states, distressing issues, and care needs across different treatment stages. Conclusion: Foot care for patients with high-risk diabetic feet spans the entire treatment process. Clinical healthcare professionals should establish a phased, continuous, and individualized foot preventive care system to effectively prevent and control the onset and progression of diabetic foot.
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