Work

Wound-care decision-making and dilemmas at different stages among patients with Wagner grade 2–3 diabetic foot ulcers: A longitudinal qualitative study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to explore the evolving decision-making processes and dilemmas in wound care among patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) across different stages, with the goal of informing the design of continuous, patient-centered wound care interventions. Using purposive sampling, twelve patients with DFUs hospitalized at a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China, between December 2024 and February 2025 were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at three distinct time points: 48 hours post-admission, one day prior to discharge, and within one month following discharge. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's method. Five overarching themes and eight subthemes were identified: (1) Patients' cognitive construction and knowledge evolution; (2) Self-management capabilities and behavioral transformation; (3) Resource utilization and realistic dilemmas; (4) Continuity of care and growing demand for information support; (5) Psychological adjustment changes. Patients with Wagner grade 2–3 DFUs exhibit dynamic, stage-specific changes in wound care decision-making. These decisions are influenced by time and individual factors. Tailored, stage-specific, and navigable wound care interventions are essential to promote sustained treatment adherence, enhance self-management capabilities, and improve overall quality of life. • Explores wound care decisions in Wagner grade 2–3 diabetic foot patients. • Captures care challenges across hospitalization to post-discharge recovery. • Tracks psychological and behavioral changes via longitudinal interviews. • Supports time-sensitive, patient-centered wound care interventions. • Provides evidence for sustained self-care support strategies post-discharge.

Source: Journal of Tissue Viability

DOI: 10.1016/j.jtv.2025.100958