Date of Award

11-4-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)

First Advisor

Dr. Rafat Jan

Second Advisor

Ms. Mehreen Aslam

Third Advisor

Muhammad Qamar Masood

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) presents a significant global health challenge, with improper insulin administration practices contributing to poor glycemic control. Many diabetic patients demonstrate inadequate knowledge and negative attitudes toward insulin therapy, leading to serious health complications. Factors such as limited education and time constraints during clinical encounters exacerbate these issues. Addressing these knowledge, attitude, and practice gaps is crucial for enhancing treatment adherence and improving health outcomes for individuals with diabetes.
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practice gaps related to insulin administration among diabetic patients at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.
Methodology: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design and was conducted at the endocrinology clinics of Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi, Pakistan. A consecutive sampling method was used to recruit 300 eligible diabetic patients receiving insulin therapy. Participants were selected based on inclusion criteria, including individuals aged 18 and above who were managing their diabetes with insulin. Data collection took place from June to August 2024 through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. Ethical approval was obtained from the hospital’s Ethical Review Committee, and written informed consent was secured from each participant.
Findings: The study found that 52.3% of participants had average knowledge, while 53.0% demonstrated favorable attitudes toward insulin administration. However, only 32.0% exhibited good practices. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant relationships among education level, knowledge, attitude, and practice scores, with a strong positive correlation between knowledge and practice scores. Additionally, notable positive correlations were identified between knowledge and attitude, as well as between attitude and practice, highlighting the interconnectedness of these factors.
Conclusion: The study revealed significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding insulin administration among diabetic patients. Effective education on insulin techniques is crucial for better diabetes management. Despite receiving education from healthcare providers, many patients still struggle, highlighting the need for enhanced educational strategies. Recommendations include developing tailored educational programs, training healthcare providers, providing easy-to-understand resources, and creating peer support groups to improve patient understanding and management of insulin therapy.

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1

Last Page

133

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