The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of diabetes mellitus patients at the Piggs Peak Hospital in Swaziland, from the time of diabetes diagnosis to living with diabetes, adherence to treatment and implementing diabetes self-care. A descriptive, exploratory, contextual qualitative research was conducted.
Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 26 participants purposively selected on diabetes days at the hospital. Data was analysed qualitatively. Results revealed that patients present late for diagnosis. Being diagnosed causes psychological distress of varying intensity and duration. Hospital visits are burdensome due to financial and transport challenges, as well as service
shortcomings. Self-care activities are difficult due to financial challenges and nonconducive social circumstances at home. Social support is lacking. Diabetes patients fear insulin use and prefer oral tablets. It is concluded that diabetes self-care is burdensome for most patients of the PPH in Swaziland. The service providers, stakeholders, and government need to explore strategies for mitigating effects of
various barriers to self-care as revealed in this study. / Health Studies / M.A. (Public Health)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:unisa/oai:umkn-dsp01.int.unisa.ac.za:10500/14389 |
| Date | January 2014 |
| Creators | Chikwanha, Darlingtone |
| Contributors | Du Toit, H. S. |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Dissertation |
| Format | 1 online resource (xii, 148 leaves): illustrations |
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