Self-care Behavior, a Follow-up Appointment, and Blood Sugar Levels among Controlled and Uncontrolled Diabetic Patients

Abstract

     The objective of this cross-sectional research was to study the relationships among self-care behaviors, a follow-up appointment, and fasting blood sugar level of controlled and uncontrolled diabetic patients at a Tambon Health Promoting Hospital in Khuan Don District of Satun Province. Sample was 90 diabetic patients. Data were collected during January-April, 2019. The research tool was a questionnaire about self-care behaviors developed by the researcher. Validity of the questionnaire was confirmed, yielding an IOC value of 0.67-1.00. Its reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, obtaining a value of 0.71. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and binary logistic regression. Results were as follows.

1. There was no difference in self-care behaviors between the controlled and the uncontrolled diabetic patients.

2. Odd ratio of the likelihood of having a high-risk fasting blood sugar level was 1:1

3. The continuous follow-up appointment was significantly associated with the likelihood of having fasting blood sugar level. Diabetic patients who came to follow-up regularly were 78 percent more likely to have less fasting blood sugar level.

          The research findings suggest that the multidisciplinary team should promote and encourage diabetic patients to change their behaviors regarding taking medication, eating, exercise, stress management, and follow-up appointment.