Knowledge of self-management activities among patients living with diabetes in Sekhukhune, Limpopo province of South Africa
TM Mothiba1, MH Mphasha2, *, Bopape MA3, Makofane PD3
Abstract
Background
Self-management activities include diet, avoiding foods high in fat, and increasing exercise. Knowledge may prompt patients with diabetes to take appropriate self-management activities for adherence to treatment, whilst lack of knowledge is associated with poor practices and complications. This study was aimed at exploring knowledge regarding self-managements activities among patients in Sekhukhune district, Limpopo province.
Method
Qualitative method and phenomenological exploratory descriptive design were used to collect data from 19 patients with 12 months or more living with diabetes in Elias Motswaledi municipality, Limpopo province. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. One-on-one interviews were conducted using voice recorders and field notes for non-verbal cues were observed. Unstructured interview guide with principal question which enabled probing was used. Data were analysed using 8 Steps of Tesch’s inductive, descriptive, and open coding technique. Trustworthiness was ensured.
Results
Findings shows that participants knew that adherence to diabetic diet, and importance of stress management, regular intake of medication, and physical activity. Moreover, they indicated that costs of food affect adherence, whilst inconsistent availability of medications at health facilities, including transportation costs for collection of medication, impact medication usage.
Conclusion
Patients living with diabetes are knowledgeable of self-management activities, which include healthy eating, medication use, engaging in physical activity and the importance of managing stress. Intervention to improve adherence should include further empowerment of patients through strengthened diabetes self-management education coupled with behavioural changes. The emphases to improve self-management activities should be that all these activities are implemented together for better outcomes.
* Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics; University of Limpopo, Mankweng, Polokwane of Limpopo Province, South Africa; E-mail: pitso85@gmail.com
