Diabetic patients : perceptions of their health education needs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate diabetic patients' perceived health education needs. A convenience sample of 12 insulin-dependent diabetic patients attending the out-patients diabetes clinic was selected. A descriptive survey design was utilised. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected by using a semistructured interview. Content analysis was employed to analyse the qualitative component of the data. The findings demonstrate that all the respondents appreciated the importance of knowing about diabetes and self-care. Yet, not all of them felt the need for more information. Some respondents showed an interest in research carried out in the field of diabetes. A very significant finding was that the nurse was not considered to be a diabetes educator by the participants. The respondents generally had the opportunity to ask questions during their visits at the diabetes clinic and were usually satisfied with the answers given. As a result of this study recommendations for practice and suggestions for further research were given.