The Experiences of Self-Care in Patients with Controlled Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to investigate the self-care experiences of patients with type 2 diabetes who have successfully controlled their blood glucose levels. The participants consisted of 19 patients with type 2 diabetes who received services at the Dong Hong Hae Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani and successfully controlled their blood glucose levels. The research tools included a general information questionnaire, a semi-structured in-depth interview guide, field notes, transcription and coding forms, and an audio recorder. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, while the qualitative data were analyzed using Colaizzi's method. The research findings revealed that the self-care experiences of those patients could be categorized into two main aspects of daily self-care behaviors: 1) self-regulation of various areas, and 2) management of abnormal symptoms. In terms of factors supporting self-care for blood glucose control, four key themes were identified: 1) perceptions and interpretations of diabetes, 2) motivation, 3) social support from family and community, and 4) access to self-care information from various knowledge sources. Obstacles to self-care for blood glucose regulation were identified and categorized into three primary domains: 1) complications during treatment, 2) stress-inducing situations, and 3) increasing age. The healthcare team should utilize these research findings to develop a system that fosters positive thinking, enhances patients' self-care, prevents complications, and enhances long-term blood sugar control.