Innovating the treatment of diabetic foot using the Rapha device

Abstract

Introduction. Diabetes mellitus is an endogenous metabolic disease, with potentially disabling consequences, especially in the case of the so-called diabetic foot. This study aim was to identify social representations present in the perception and interpretation of elderly adults that were carriers of the injury known as diabetic foot. Methods. The elderly adults in this study are part of the Rapha project that consists of a portable medical device based on Led light, which is applied together with latex sheets on the affected foot of the elderly adult developed in Brasilia, Brazil. This study consisted of qualitative-quantitative methods. Data collection was carried out through interviews and the application of a questionnaire to identify the socioeconomic profile of the informants. Results. Most of the participants stated that the Rapha device was decisive in treating and reducing the wound. Additionally, the main social representations identified were: fear, sadness, discomfort, and pain. The results pointed to the importance of incorporating a psychological component to the treatment offered. Conclusion. The study suggests that it is crucial to value the psychological and socioeconomic aspects of the care protocols of elderly adults with diabetic foot lesions for the sake of clinical treatment.