The care process of diabetic foot ulcer patients: a qualitative study in Iran

BACKGROUND The Purpose of this study is to clarify the care process for Iranian diabetic patients with diabetic foot ulcer condition. METHODS The main question of this research was "How is the care process for diabetic foot ulcer patients and how do patients experience it?" This study was within the Grounded Theory method. Data collection was carried out until data saturation was achieved. Saturation was achieved after interviewing 11 patients, 4 physicians, one head nurse and one nurse. RESULTS Three main themes emerged from this study, including: "disease management, disease experience and continuity of care". Each of these themes is consisted of different sub-themes. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to describe the care process in Iranian diabetic patients with diabetic foot ulcer disease. Knowing patients' experience and the manner of dealing with them once faced with foot ulcer condition could facilitate a comprehensive decision making by therapists and better recovery of diabetic patients.