Lifestyle Adjustments in Diabetic Individuals Following Lower Extremity Amputations: A Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) often leads to lower extremity amputations when poorly managed. Managing DM in Ghana is difficult due to limited access to diabetic care, low public awareness, and a strong reliance on religious beliefs and traditional medicine.

AIM

This study examined the lifestyle changes of patients after lower limb amputation at Sunyani Teaching Hospital (STH) in Ghana, using the biopsychosocial model.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted on eight diabetic individuals who had undergone amputations at STH, Ghana. The study was conducted from March 2024 to May 2024.

RESULTS

The results showed that diabetic individuals with lower limb amputation face various physical, psychological, social, and economic challenges after lower limb amputation, often depending on family support for emotional and practical help. When this support is weak, it can lead to further complications, including death.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that improving the quality of life for diabetic patients with lower limb amputation in Ghana requires a comprehensive approach to post-amputation care, focusing on physical rehabilitation, emotional support, and social integration. Nurses and other healthcare professionals play a key role in this process by providing ongoing education and emotional support and working closely with patients' families and communities.