“New technologies applied in self-care to patients with diabetic foot ulcers: a scoping review”

BACKGROUND: The integration of new technologies has shown potential to enhance self-care practices among patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Understanding the effectiveness of these interventions can inform clinical and public health strategies to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. OBJECTIVES: This scoping review aims to assess the impact of digital and educational technologies on self-care practices and health outcomes in individuals with diabetic foot ulcers. SOURCES OF EVIDENCE: Databases searched encompassed EMBASE, MEDLINE, SciELO, WoS, Scopus, and PubMed, covering publications up to September 2024. The search strategy incorporated MeSH terms and keywords related to "self-care," "diabetic foot ulcers," and "educational technology." METHODS: After duplicate removal, titles and abstracts were screened independently by three reviewers. Full texts of selected articles were analyzed, and data regarding study design, interventions, outcomes, and populations were extracted using standardized forms. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus. RESULTS: From 442 identified records, 12 studies met inclusion criteria, primarily highlighting the role of mobile applications and digital educational tools in enhancing self-care behaviors, adherence, and complication prevention. Positive effects on patient knowledge and routine adherence were frequently reported. CONCLUSIONS: Technological interventions show promise in improving self-care among DFU patients; however, further high-quality, longitudinal studies are needed to establish best practices and long-term benefits.