Diabetes Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Diabetes, including details on insulin, type i, type ii, diet, treatment, prevention.

An evaluation of the value of group education in recently diagnosed diabetes mellitus.

Ooi GS, Rodrigo C, Cheong WK, Mehta RL, Bowen G, Shearman CP

Southampton University Hospital NHS Trust, Southampton, UK. desmond001@doctors.org.uk

Diabetic patients have a 12% to 25% lifetime risk of developing foot complications leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of group education in improving patient awareness of foot care. The authors evaluated the effect of group size and areas in which knowledge seemed to be most affected. Patients attending a 2-hour teaching session between November 2005 and March 2006 were recruited. Patients filled in an 18-part questionnaire before and after the teaching session to assess knowledge. Fifty-nine patients recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or foot complications were recruited for 7 sessions. Analysis of the data showed a statistically significant improvement in foot care knowledge after the teaching session compared with before (69% to 85%, P < .001). Patients in the smaller group (n < 10) had significantly higher scores compared with the bigger groups (n > 10; P < .025). These data show the benefit of group education about foot care for patients with diabetes. Smaller groups benefited more than larger ones did, which could be attributed to the sizes allowing for better interaction between the tutor and patient. As patient knowledge is variable from individual to individual, smaller teaching sessions may allow patients to address specific concerns.

Published 8 March 2007 in Int J Low Extrem Wounds, 6(1): 28-33.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 Diabetes Research Today. All Rights Reserved.