Adolescent athletes with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) face unique challenges when compared to peers with and without diabetes. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) provides a method of insulin delivery that can enhance flexibility in insulin regimens and lifestyle that may be especially appealing to the adolescent athlete. No studies have explored the impact of athletics in this population. This descriptive qualitative study explored and described the experiences of adolescent athletes using CSII as their primary insulin delivery method, with a focus on athletic participation and performance.
The purposeful sample consisted of four adolescent athletes, ages 13 to 15 years with T1DM, using CSII, in excellent diabetes control, and recently participated in organized sports activities. After written informed consent, data were collected through a semi-structured interview with the adolescent and parent. Results were transcribed verbatim and analyzed for emerging themes. Four themes emerged from the transcripts along with multiple subcategories. The main themes included: protecting the pump and infusion site; dealing with highs and lows; maximizing participation and performance; and keeping watch. Information gathered from this study will prepare healthcare professionals to anticipate the needs of adolescent athletes using CSII when prescribing a diabetes management regimen.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:unf.edu/oai:digitalcommons.unf.edu:etd-1350 |
| Date | 01 January 2013 |
| Creators | Tow, Regina |
| Publisher | UNF Digital Commons |
| Source Sets | University of North Florida |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Source | UNF Theses and Dissertations |
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