Experience of patients with diabetic retinopathy: A qualitative study

To understand the status quo and needs of self-management of patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and to provide a reference for formulating management programs that meet the needs of these patients.

A qualitative interview study.

Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted between November and December 2021. A purposive sample of 15 patients with DR who were hospitalized in the Retinal Department of Eye Hospital was recruited. Colaizzi's analysis was used to organize and analyse the interview data. This study followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist.

The experience of patients with DR can be summarized into four themes: (1) lack of DR knowledge, (2) low quality of life, (3) poor self-management behaviour and (4) seek for support from many aspects.

Patients with DR lack disease knowledge and have poor self-management abilities and adherence. Medical staff should provide personalized care according to the patient's self-management status and needs, promote the establishment of self-management behaviours and prevent and delay disease progression.

This study helps assist medical staff in the early management of patients with DR and provides a reference for the construction of prevention programs for patients.