Impact of Nurse-Led Home Visits on Foot Ulcer Prevention in Elderly Type 2 Diabetics: A Cluster Randomized Trial

Kirenyo Nalubega F.

Faculty of Medicine Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Foot ulcers are a prevalent and debilitating complication among elderly individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), often resulting in increased morbidity, reduced mobility, and a heightened risk of lower limb amputation. As traditional outpatient models may fall short in addressing the preventive needs of this high-risk population, nurse-led home visits have emerged as a promising alternative. This review evaluated the impact of such interventions on foot ulcer prevention in elderly T2DM patients, synthesizing evidence from cluster randomized trials (CRTs). A narrative review methodology was employed, drawing insights from peer-reviewed CRTs that investigated clinical efficacy, behavioral outcomes, and implementation challenges associated with nurse-led home care models. Key components of these interventions include foot risk assessment, individualized education, self-care reinforcement, environmental hazard evaluation, and early referral for advanced care. Findings from CRTs consistently demonstrate a significant reduction in foot ulcer incidence and improvement in foot care practices among patients receiving home-based nursing care. Moreover, these interventions prove feasible and cost-effective, although challenges such as staffing limitations and reimbursement barriers persist. Nurse-led home visits not only enhance clinical outcomes but also align with broader goals of aging-in-place and chronic disease management. They represent a scalable and patient-centered strategy with substantial implications for geriatric diabetes care.

Keywords: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Foot Ulcer Prevention, Nurse-Led Home Visits, Elderly Patients, Cluster Randomized Trials.

CITE AS: Kirenyo Nalubega F.. (2025). Impact of Nurse-Led Home Visits on Foot Ulcer Prevention in Elderly Type 2 Diabetics: A Cluster Randomized Trial. Research Output Journal of Engineering and Scientific Research 4(3): 35-38. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJESR/2025/4.3.3538