By Darren Nickel PhD, Gary Linassi MB FRCPC, Nathaniel Osgood PhD and Donna Goodridge PhD
DOI: 10.56885/719502teaugm
Abstract: The aim of this study was to: 1) examine participant perceptions of an email-based intervention to support foot health amongst persons with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and 2) explore preliminary evidence of its usefulness in increasing frequency of foot and leg inspection. The intervention for this single group pilot study consisted of a series of educational, supportive and reminder email messages delivered once per day for 60 days. Among the encouraged self-care behaviours, a simple daily inspection of the lower
limbs and feet was emphasized. Participant perceptions were measured with items adapted from the Mobile Application Rating Scale at study end. Preliminary usefulness was measured with a single item concerning frequency of foot and leg inspection at baseline and study end. Sixty-five individuals participated and 20 withdrew. Participants who completed the user perceptions questionnaire generally viewed the intervention as helpful and persuasive, with at least 35/41 (85%) agreeing with items concerning use of it increasing awareness, intentions, and care behaviour. Preliminary results concerning frequency of foot and leg inspection showed some improvements from baseline to study end. The study findings, while promising, point to the need for further evidence concerning the acceptability and effectiveness of email or text messages with randomized controlled trials.