Examining the perceived nurses' support for self management among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Botswana

Abstract

Patients’ perceptions of health care and support is a key determinant in self-efficacy and active participation in the management of chronic conditions. Nurses play a significant role in Diabetes Self-Management Education by providing clients with tools, empowerment and knowledge to self-manage their condition. The purpose of this study was to examine and describe diabetes patients’ perceptions of nurses’ support for self-management in Botswana. The aim was to improve clients’ skills in self-management and to strengthen diabetes health care management. This study was carried out at the Diabetes Clinic of Excellence, in the city of Francistown, the second largest city in Botswana. The study population comprised of Type 2 Diabetes patients registered at the Diabetes Clinic for their follow-up. All were aged 18 years and above. Three hundred and fifty-four (354) patients participated in the study. The study used a non-experimental, descriptive, quantitative design. Probability sampling method was used to recruit diabetes patients from the selected clinic. Data were were collected using a structured, researcher developed, questionnaire mostly in face-to-face interviews, a few participants completed the questionnaire. The Quantitative data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science Software (version 25). Spearman rho was used to determine statistical correlation between patients’ perceptions and their self-management practices. The findings showed that generally, patients’ perceptions of professional support was positive regarding most of the constructs measured. However, there were areas that showed less satisfaction with the support such as foot-care, risk control, and ability to identify signs of low and high blood sugar level and carrying of Identification Band (ID). Perceptions of nurses’ motivational behaviour showed varied responses. Patients’ self-care activities were sub-optimal and showed some variations which tended to correspond with their perceptions of professionals support. The Spearman's correlation results ranged from strong, moderate, and weak positive correlation. A few demographic variables showed some impact on self-care activities. Based on the findings, the study concludes that professional support through DSME and DSMS, self-management and patients’ perceptions of care play a significant role in diabetes management.