EXPERIENCES OF SELF-CARE AMONG TYPE II DIABETIC PATIENTS AT KABWOHE HEALTH CENTER IV. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background: The study aims to explore experiences of self-care among patients with type 2 diabetes yielding new knowledge regarding self-care and also helping to prioritize type 2 diabetes management targets that are specific to the self-care needs of diabetic patients at Kabwohe Health Center IV. Methods: This was a cross-sectional phenomenological study design that employed a purposive sampling technique that involved diabetic patients of 5 years and above from the time of diagnosis who are receiving care at Kabwohe Health Center IV in Sheema District Uganda. The study involved 18 study participants and employed an in-depth interview guide with open-ended questions Results: Four emergent themes were identified to illustrate the self-care experiences among patients with Type 2 DM. These themes were: (i) dietary adjustment, (ii) social support (iii) personal journey (iv) self-regulation. Conclusion: Participants demonstrated an understanding of diabetes self-care but showed a need for a deeper and personally centered orientation towards diabetes self-care from the health workers Recommendation: The study recommends a detailed and personal-centered health education among these diabetic patients