Hypoglycemia education needs

Qual Health Res. 2011 Sep;21(9):1220-8. doi: 10.1177/1049732311402698. Epub 2011 Mar 10.

Abstract

Because more than half of those participating in a community-based diabetes session expressed experience with hypoglycemia, we sought additional information by conducting focus groups before developing programs or materials for educational support. The objectives of these focus groups were to determine how and to what extent hypoglycemia affected people, and what, if any, methods were used to prevent or treat the condition, to better target education in the future. Four focus groups were held using a tiered discussion script with a moderator and comoderator. Discussions were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed by content by independent researchers. Five themes emerged from the discussions: friends, family, and neighbors need hypoglycemia education as well as individuals themselves; leaving home is a concern if you experience hypoglycemia; overeating occurs when treating hypoglycemia; routine is important; and hypoglycemia is a limitation. We found that hypoglycemia had a significant impact on the participants' quality of life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Community Health Services
  • Diabetes Mellitus / psychology*
  • Educational Status
  • Focus Groups
  • Health Education*
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemia / etiology
  • Hypoglycemia / psychology*
  • Needs Assessment*
  • Patient Education as Topic*
  • Quality of Life / psychology
  • Tape Recording