A contribution of qualitative research to a better understanding of diabetic patients

Abstract

In spite of advances in the management of diabetes mellitus, late complications still present problems. Research suggests that improved metabolic control, including the change of lifestyle, which requires the patient's own willingness and ability to adapt, could limit those complications. This article is intended to provide the background to a long-term research programme designed to gain a deeper understanding of diabetic patients' perspectives in their attempt to adapt. It describes an important phase in the programme, building on the conceptual categories emerging from a group of diabetic patients in a previous study (Ternulf Nyhlin et al. 1987). It also uses the experiences of further groups of diabetic patients, in an attempt to show the usefulness of a cumulative approach towards the building up of a theoretical framework. Some inherent methodological issues are discussed.

Persons with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus: acceptance and coping ability

“…A possible explanation for this situation may be that these persons have had no choice but to accept their disease. This phenomenon has also been shown in other studies (William‐Olsson 1986, Ternulf‐Nyhlin 1990). Ternulf‐Nyhlin (1990), for example, described the IDDM patients’ sick‐role as ‘not ill, but having a disease’ and ‘being dependently independent’.…”

“…This phenomenon has also been shown in other studies (William‐Olsson 1986, Ternulf‐Nyhlin 1990). Ternulf‐Nyhlin (1990), for example, described the IDDM patients’ sick‐role as ‘not ill, but having a disease’ and ‘being dependently independent’. In Trainor (1982) study, persons serving as ostomy visitors had about the same high level of acceptance of their ostomy as our group of IDDM patients.…”

'Slightly more serious than a cold': Do patients, nurses and GPs take type 2 diabetes seriously?

“…Nor does it follow that increased health care knowledge will necessarily lead to a change in behaviour (Hoddinot and Pill, 1999). Similar ndings were the results of studies by Callaghan and Williams (1994) and Ternulf-Nyhlin (1990), which suggested a lack of insight or awareness on the part of patients with diabetes.…”

How do adults with cystic fibrosis cope following a diagnosis of diabetes?

“…Initial feelings after diagnosis of diabetes included shock, anxiety, uncertainty, loss of spontaneity and relief; these are feelings already noted among people diagnosed with diabetes as a first chronic illness (Ternulf Nyhlin 1990, Callaghan & Williams 1994, Everett 2001, Gillibrand & Flynn 2001). A new finding is that the diagnosis of diabetes led some to confront difficult feelings about CF, which until then may have seemed well‐controlled and ‘normal’.…”