| Abstrakt: |
It has been estimated that the majority of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus will need treatment with insulin eventually if they are to keep their blood sugar levels within recommended limits. Whilst much is known about the physiological benefits of insulin, far less is known about the 'lived experience' of going onto insulin therapy. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the range of subjective experiences of men and women with type 2 diabetes who have recently gone onto insulin. It was specifically concerned with their expectations and experiences of insulin and the impact they felt it made on their lives. A purposeful sample of six people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who had recently commenced on insulin therapy, was taken. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews which were audiotape-recorded and transcribed. The transcripts were analysed together with the researcher's observational notes and documentary evidence, using interpretive phenomenological analysis. The data showed that patients experienced a range of initial reactions (from shock and anger, to relief) and perceptions of insulin, sometimes resulting in an altered self-image. However, perceptions were shown to change over time, with some patients eventually accepting insulin and becoming empowered. It was concluded that patients starting on insulin need a programme of education and support which is not solely directed at imparting knowledge and new skills. Health care professionals must first establish patients' health beliefs, expectations and fears regarding insulin, if this knowledge is to be accepted and new skills are to be used effectively. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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