The relationship between self-efficacy and diabetic foot self-care

• Diabetes is the leading cause of nontraumatic lower extremity amputations (LEA).
• The majority of LEA's are preventable with appropriate foot self-care.
• Self-efficacy is a preeminent factor in performance of self-care behaviors.
• Dual instrumentation including the FCCS and NAFF surveys was used for correlation.
• Further research and possibly alternative methodology are needed.

AimsResearch has shown that the ongoing rate of diabetes-related amputations remains significant despite the existence of prevention methods and that amputation in most cases can be prevented. The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between the level of self-efficacy and performance of foot self-care in those with diabetes as they relate to the prevention of lower extremity amputation (LEA).MethodsA descriptive correlational study was conducted using the theoretical framework of Bandura's social cognitive theory. The Foot Care Confidence Scale (FCCS) and the Nottingham Assessment of Functional Footcare (NAFF) survey instruments were distributed to individuals over 18 years old with diabetes Type 1 and 2 in the lower peninsula of Michigan (N = 223).ResultsNo significant correlation was identified between the level of self-efficacy and performance of foot self-care behaviors. Statistical significance was found between foot self-care behaviors and gender with males scoring higher than females.ConclusionsThis study adds to the body of knowledge regarding self-efficacy and diabetic foot self-care behaviors. Further research is needed to explore the relationship of gender, diabetes education attendance, and foot self-care behaviors as influencing factors in LEA prevention.