Foot and Nail Care in Palliative Care: Experiences of Diabetes Care Nurses
Abstract
Background. Palliative care patients with diabetes mellitus often experience foot and nail complications that affect their quality of life and increase the risk of infections and amputations. Proper foot care is an essential component of comprehensive nursing; however, in Lithuania, these services remain fragmented and insufficiently integrated into the provision of palliative care.
Aim. To reveal the characteristics of foot and nail care in palliative care for patients with diabetes mellitus.
Methods. A qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured interview method. The study involved nine female participants – general practice nurses with a specialisation in diabetes nursing – who provide foot and nail care services to palliative care patients.
Results. The qualitative study revealed that diabetes nurse specialists face challenging working conditions, difficulties related to patients’ physical conditions, a lack of knowledge and training, and limited collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Despite these challenges, they demonstrate adaptability, apply creative solutions, and value the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork. The study also highlighted the need to integrate podiatrists into palliative care teams and to establish clearer regulations for foot care services.
Conclusions. To improve the quality of palliative care, it is essential to strengthen the competencies of diabetes nurse specialists, ensure access to specialised training, enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, and integrate podiatrists into the healthcare system. These measures would help reduce the risk of complications and improve patients’ quality of life.
Keywords: Palliative care; diabetes mellitus; foot care; diabetes nurse specialist; podologist
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