Santiprabhob J, Likitmaskul S, Kiattisakthavee P, Weerakulwattana P, Chaichanwattanakul K, Nakavachara P, Peerapatdit T, Nitiyanant W. Glycemic control and the psychosocial benefits gained by patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus attending the diabetes camp.
PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2008;
73:60-66. [PMID:
18606522 DOI:
10.1016/j.pec.2008.05.023]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2007] [Revised: 04/24/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of diabetes camp on glycemic control, knowledge, and psychosocial benefits among patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Glycemic control among patients with infrequent and frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) was also compared.
METHODS
During a 5-day camp, 60 patients were taught diabetes self-management education (DSME). After camp, patients were divided into two groups based on frequency of SMBG (<3 versus 3-4 times/day) and were followed up until 6-month post-camp. Patients' HbA1c levels and knowledge were assessed at baseline, 3- and 6-month post-camp. Patients' impressions towards camp were assessed.
RESULTS
In both SMBG groups, HbA1c levels decreased significantly at 3-month post-camp but did not sustain at 6-month monitoring. The patients with frequent SMBG had a lower mean HbA1c level. A significant improvement in knowledge was noted and sustained up to 6-month post-camp. The patients found diabetes camp of benefit and felt they could better cope with diabetes.
CONCLUSIONS
Although the effect of the diabetes camp on glycemic control was short-lived, an improvement in knowledge and a better attitude towards having diabetes were seen among participants.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS
The psychosocial benefits and knowledge gained by patients attending diabetes camp underline the importance of including a camp in a diabetes management plan. To improve patients' long-term glycemic control, a continuous education is required.
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