SELF-MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCES IN PERSONS LIVING WITH DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive disease which has the potential of negatively affecting virtually all the systems of the body, causing debilitating and life-threatening complications if blood glucose levels are not controlled. A high level of self-management is required in order to control blood glucose levels and prevent or delay the onset of complications which may have severe physical, psychological and financial implications for the individuals and their families.  As no research on the experiences of persons living with the condition was previously conducted in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, a qualitative, descriptive, exploratory and contextual study was conducted between January and April 2009. Nineteen participants from both the private and public health care sectors were recruited making use of purposive sampling. The following themes emerged from the data collection: persons living with DM experience a wide range of emotions on initial diagnosis; gradually they experience an acceptance and acknowledgment of their condition; persons living with DM have definite opinions on the concept of self-management; persons living with DM acknowledge both positive and negative factors which influence self-management and expressed views on how professional nurses can assist them in achieving self-management. Recommendations included allowing persons living with DM to take a leading role in decisions regarding management of their condition. They should make periodic reinforcements of their lifestyle modifications as part of an ongoing patient education process. Qualified Diabetes Nurse Educators should be employed at health care facilities, both in the public and private sector. Finally, specialized courses covering all areas of management of DM should be more readily available to health care workers.