Self-care problems of adolescents with type 1 diabetes in southern Taiwan

The purpose of this study was to explore problems encountered in self-care of adolescents with type 1 diabetes (type 1 + insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) from a patient-oriented perspective in Taiwan. Thirteen girls and six boys were recruited for participation. An open-ended, in-depth interview method was used for data collection. Findings revealed that 26.3% to 42.1% of the subjects' self-care activities were administered by parents, 36.8% did not use any meal plan, 10% could not manage their hypoglycemia well, and 36.8% had difficulties following prescribed regimens and tried alternative therapies such as herbal medicines or nutrient supplements. Results indicate the importance of parents encouraging their children to take on self-care responsibilities. Professional staffs also need to help modify contents and schedules of regimens for each adolescent patient.