The effects of social support and hope in the healing of diabetic foot ulcers treated with standard care [2-s2.0-85077518852]

Abstract

Aim: This study was carried out to investigate the effects of “Social Support” and “Hope” on 50% reduction of wound size after four weeks of treatment with standard care in patients with Grade B, Stage I diabetic foot ulcer. Methods: The study population was composed of patients with Grade B, Stage I diabetic foot ulcers. The study sample included 34 patients, aged ?40 years, with type 2 diabetes, HbA1c concentration of Î7%. This study used four data collection tools including two questionnaire and Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS); Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). All patients received evidence-based standard care. Wound surface area was measured at days 1 and 30 to determine whether 50% percent decrease has been achieved. T test, correlation analysis, and chi-square test were used for data analysis. Findings: A positive correlation was found between family social support and healing percentage (r = 406, p = 0.01). According to BHS, patients with wounds healed over 50% in size had mild, and those with wounds healed less than 50% had moderate scores. There was a negative correlation between social support and hopelessness (r =-449, p = 0.01). A negative correlation was found with social support from the family (r = -539, p = 0.01) and the friends (r = -457, p = 0.01), and hopelessness. Conclusion: Social support and high motivation had a positive effect on wound healing in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Family social support affects healing in a positive way, but hopelessness in a negative way. © 2019 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc.