Factors Related to Self-Care Behaviors of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Attending the Diabetes Clinic at Khlong Thom Hospital, Krabi Province

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to 1) examine the levels of attitudes and self-care behaviors of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and 2) identify the factors associated with self-care behaviors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the diabetes clinic at Khlong Thom Hospital, Krabi Province. The sample consisted of 275 participants. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which was validated by three experts, yielding a content validity index ranging from 0.67 to 1.00. The reliability coefficients were 0.77 and 0.78, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient, with the level of statistical significance set at 0.05.

The study found that overall attitudes toward type 2 diabetes mellitus were at a good level (M = 4.29, SD = 0.54). Similarly, overall self-care behaviors of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were at a good level (M = 4.68, SD = 0.59). Attitudes toward type 2 diabetes mellitus were positively correlated with self-care behaviors (r = 0.519) among patients attending the diabetes clinic at Khlong Thom Hospital, Krabi Province, with statistical significance at the 0.01 level.

Therefore, it is essential to promote positive attitudes and awareness of self-care among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus through activities that enhance self-confidence, such as education on nutrition, exercise, medication adherence, foot care, and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. Emphasis should be placed on continuity and the active participation of both patients and their families in order to foster sustainable self-care behaviors, reduce complications, and improve quality of life.