Prevalence and factors associated with suboptimal foot self-care practices among adult diabetic patients in governmental hospitals in Hawassa city, Sidama Region, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

Background: Diabetic foot self-care is essential in preventing foot ulcers and lower extremity amputations, two severe complications of diabetes. However, poor self-care practices are common and significantly contribute to these outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence of poor foot self-care practices and identify associated factors among adult diabetic patients in Hawassa City, Sidama, Ethiopia. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2023 among 420 diabetic patients using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using binary logistic regression in SPSS version 25. Variables with a P-value < 0.25 in bivariate analysis were included in the multivariate model. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The response rate was 100%. One-third (33.3%) of participants exhibited poor foot self-care practices. Significant factors associated with poor self-care included being a private employee [AOR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.08–0.89], having foot care information [AOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.29–0.88], poor family support [AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.10–3.09], poor knowledge [AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.34–3.81], and alcohol consumption [AOR = 8.60, 95% CI: 2.65–27.52]. Conclusion: One-third of diabetic patients had poor foot self-care practices. Key associated factors included lack of foot care knowledge, inadequate family support, and alcohol consumption. Interventions to improve patient education and family involvement are essential to enhance foot self-care practices.