Exploring Preparation Needs of Informal Caregivers of Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Study at the 37 Military Hospital

Abstract

To successfully manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2 DM), informal caregivers (ICGs) play a critical role. Understanding and addressing the preparation needs of ICGs of persons with T2 DM will lead to improvement in the quality of care and health outcomes of persons with T2DM. The study explored the preparation needs of ICGs of persons with T2 DM at the 37 Military Hospital. The Caregiver-Centered Care Competency model by Parmar and colleagues was adopted for the research. The study employed a qualitative exploratory descriptive design and 20 participants were purposively sampled for the study. One-to-one in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide and audiotaped. Data were analysed using the thematic content analysis approach. Six themes and 14 sub-themes emerged namely: Communication between HCWs and ICGS (Clarity of communication, Sharing of information, Follow-up phone calls); Partnership with HCWs (Collaboration with HCWs, Accessibility to HCWs, Attitude of HCWs), Recognition of the role of the ICG (Awareness of the role of ICGs, Acknowledgment of ICGs), Building resilience in ICGs (Education from HCWs, Concern about welfare), Navigating the healthcare system (Direction from HCWs, Referral from HCWs) and Culture and context of care (Duty to care, Support system). Communication and partnership between ICGs and HCWs were important resources in the performance of the caregiving role by ICGs of persons with T2 DM. However, HCWs lacked empathy whilst dealing with ICGs. Hospital management should encourage HCWs to continue to develop proper partnerships and communication with ICGs to ensure they understand the treatment process and involve them in decision-making concerning persons with T2DM