Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic and progressive disease that can influence quality of life. Treatments for diabetes which include medications, diet, and exercise are burdensome to people with diabetes (PWD). In patients with diabetes, does Diabetes Education improve their perception of quality of life?

To explore the effects of diabetes education on patients’ perception of quality of life. The "Living with Diabetes" (LWD) questionnaire was developed which focuses on self-management skills and patient perceptions regarding diabetes self-care. The LWD is based upon recommendations from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 7 Self-Care Behaviors.

The LWD Questionnaire was administered during the first office visit and again at the end of the education program. The questionnaire has 15 questions and uses the Likert items ( Agree, Unsure, Disagree). LWD questionnaire was used for 10 months. The tool was developed by our Diabetes Educators.

In total, 86% (n=22) who completed the questionnaire felt improvement of their perception regarding diabetes self-care. Fourteen percent (n=3) felt no improvement or still working on their self-care skills. Majority of these patients achieved 100% (n=19). In total, 86% (n=22) who completed the questionnaire felt improvement of their perception regarding diabetes self-care. Fourteen percent (n=3) felt no improvement or still working on their self-care skills. Majority of these patients achieved 100% (n=19). The LWD tool is simple to administer and focuses on self-management skills and patient perceptions regarding diabetes self-care. These findings clearly acknowledged the importance of diabetes self-management education. The shift of feelings of self-inadequacy to adequacy and hopefulness is a positive transition.

Publication Date

6-17-2016

Presented At:

11th Annual BHSF Research Conference

Content Type

Presentation

Baptist Health South Florida Affiliations:

Clarinda Hefner, MSN, RN-BC, CDE

Additional Authors:

Courtney J. Smith, RN, LDN

Download

Open Access

Available to all.

Share

COinS