ABSTRACT
Objective: to identify self-care deficits in women with leg ulcers and sickle cell disease.
Method: a qualitative, descriptive, exploratory approach with 14 women. The collection was performed from December 2015 to January 2016, while the analysis was supported by Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory.
Results: self-care requirements are not fully met. The following were identified as universal: balance between loneliness and social interaction, rest and proper nutrition; development: inability to perform work, abrupt changes in the environment due to hospitalization, educational deprivation and dropout; health deviations: ulcer recurrences, pain, changes in skin appearance and gait changes.
Conclusion: nursing care for women with leg ulcers and sickle cell disease requires planned actions for comprehensive care.
Descriptors: Sickle Cell Disease; Leg Ulcer; Self-Care; Nursing Care; Nursing Theory