The Effectiveness of Peer Group-Based Training in Adherence to Treatment of Adults with Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Background Objective: Adherence to treatment of patients with diabetic foot ulcer leads to successful treatment and a reduction in the severity of complications. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of peer group-based training on adherence to treatment of adults with diabetic foot ulcers in Shiraz in 2020. Materials Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 70 patients (35 in the intervention group and 35 in the control group). The content of the education program was performed by the peer for the intervention group in 5 sessions of 45 minutes, and the routine education of the diabetes clinic was provided to the control group. Data collection tools included demographic characteristics questionnaire, Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS). Data were analyzed by the SPSS software version 22 using statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA and Chi-square) and the significance level was considered p 0.05. Results: The mean score of adherence to treatment was significant immediately after the intervention, but there was no significant difference after one and three months. Conclusion: Peer training of patients with diabetic foot ulcers could improve adherence to treatment. Therefore, health system policymakers may use this approach as an effective method in the care program of patients with diabetic foot ulcers and other diseases.