[Education of a hospitalized diabetic population]

During the second semester of 1981, all the diabetic patients who were hospitalized in the department (142 IDD and 75 NIDD) followed an educational program. Approximately half the patients were unable to follow the entire course, owing to visual, motor, intellectual or linguistic impairment. Few patients refused the course (8 cases). Evaluation of the theoretical knowledge at discharge showed poor results in 47% of IDD and 64% of NIDD, with patients in the latter group appearing to be less motivated. Advanced age, unemployment and alcoholism are detrimental factors. In contrast, among 71 IDD who followed only part of the course because of a handicap, 25 nevertheless acquired satisfactory knowledge, justifying an educational program with limited objectives. At follow-up at the outpatient clinic, insulin dependent patients exhibited better metabolic control, self-monitoring and acceptance of their disease; however, the patients who are seen at follow-up examinations are those who have the best theoretical knowledge. A comparative study of hospitalizations shows that admissions for hypoglycemia have decreased between 1978 and 1981, but education is not the only factor. The shortcomings and possible improvements are discussed.