Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers in the Home: Video Consultations as an Alternative to Outpatient Hospital Care
2008

Video Consultations for Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers at Home

Sample size: 5 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jane Clemensen, Simon B. Larsen, Marit Kirkevold, Niels Ejskjaer

Primary Institution: University of Aarhus

Hypothesis

Can video consultations in the home support a viable alternative to visits to the hospital outpatient clinic for patients with diabetic foot ulcers?

Conclusion

The study found that video consultations were satisfactory for patients, visiting nurses, and experts, indicating a viable alternative to traditional outpatient visits.

Supporting Evidence

  • All patients expressed satisfaction and felt confident with the new way of working.
  • The visiting nurse experienced increased confidence with the treatment of the foot ulcer.
  • Experts felt secure in being responsible for the treatment performed at a distance.

Takeaway

This study shows that doctors can help treat foot ulcers over video calls, which makes it easier for patients to stay at home instead of going to the hospital.

Methodology

The study used participatory design methods, field observations, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and qualitative analysis of telemedical consultations.

Limitations

The study was limited to a small sample size and may not be generalizable to larger populations.

Participant Demographics

Patients were mentally well-functioning individuals receiving treatment for diabetic foot ulcers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1155/2008/132890

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