Development and Validation of an Educational Intervention Using a Mobile Social Networking for People With Diabetes: A Brazilian Experience

Abstract

Introduction Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disease with high morbidity and mortality rate and increasing prevalence, which leading to a significant decrease in quality of life. Objective To develop and validate a intervention program of non-pharmacological interventions for self-care and a healthy lifestyles using a mobile social networking for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes assisted by a Primary Health Care service. Method Applied technological research with mixed methodology. The method chosen for the development of the set of interventions was the Contextualized Instructional Design (DIC), and the validation was carried out by the Delphi Method. Results In the developed program, patients received information through posts in a WhatsApp® group called “Routine in Day.” In this virtual environment, the content was transmitted and discussed through text messages, videos, audios and images about Diabetes Mellitus, healthy eating, physical activity, correct use of medications, sleeping habits, mental health, drug control and guidance on the reduction of chronic complications based on scientific evidence. With regard to validation, after two rounds of the Delphi method, the Content Validity Index was above the standard in the literature. Conclusion: The current intervention proposal proved to be a useful and accessible tool, with the objective of contributing to the control of Diabetes Mellitus, in addition to facilitating communication between the team and patients.