Design: A comprehensive review of the literature related to SMAs and strategies to promote self-care was performed. A randomized sample of diabetics cared for at a local community health center were sent a letter of invitation to participate in six weekly SMAs. Patients were provided information about the dates, times and locations of the visits, topics of discussion, the name of the APN conducting the visits, and a phone number to call to register.

Methods: Six weekly 90-minute SMAs were held. Visits explored a variety of topics including: a basic physiological overview of both Type I and Type II diabetes; eye, foot and skin care; diet; exercise; and medications. A brief physical exam was also performed on each patient by the APN at each of the weekly visits. Patient satisfaction surveys were completed at the end of each visit.

Outcomes: Preliminary data suggests that SMAs are an effective way to improve diabetic self-care. Patients reported not only an increased sense of knowledge regarding their diabetes, but also a high level of satisfaction with the SMA format. For patients that participated in the SMAs, preliminary data shows an overall decline in HA1Cs three and six months following completion of the program.

Implications: This project demonstrates the effectiveness of SMAs in improving health outcomes and decreasing costly complications related to diabetes. Furthermore, these findings will provide helpful insights regarding the effectiveness of SMAs, and the potential of the SMA model to be used with other chronic illnesses.

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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004