The Development of Guidelines for Promotion of Self-Care Behavior Among Diabetic Patients in Wat Tum Sub-district of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

          Diabetes was a public health problem caused by inappropriate health behaviors. The study aimed to develop guidelines for promoting self-care behavior among diabetic patients through a mixed-method approach. Phase 1 investigated factors related to self-care behaviors among 214 diabetic patients, utilizing simple random sampling and questionnaire surveys. Data analysis involved descriptive statistical and Pearson's correlation analysis. Phase 2 develops guidelines for promoting self-care behavior among diabetic patients through focus group discussions with 13 stakeholders and content analysis.
          The research revealed that the sample group exhibited a high level of diabetes knowledge, health perception, and self-care behaviors, with mean scores of 2.72, 2.59, and 2.31, respectively. Significant positive correlations were observed between perceived barriers, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived cues to action, perceived severity, knowledge of diabetes, and self-care behaviors among diabetic patients (r = .381, .376, .335, .309, .263, and .230, respectively; p < 0.01). The guidelines for the promotion of self-care behavior among diabetic patients included (1) enhancing self-care awareness and consciousness, (2) developing self-care skills for blood sugar control, (3) fostering self-care and self-management guidance, (4) facilitating discussions and idea exchanges, and (5) assessing blood sugar levels. The assessment of quality and feasibility indicated a high potential for practical implementation.
          Recommendations for public health officials include providing education, raising awareness, and promoting health perception to effectively control blood sugar levels among diabetic patients through self-care practices.