%0 Journal Article
%T Caregivers of children with diabetes mellitus: challenges of caring for and perceptions of consultations in a South African public sector context
%A BL Dhada
%A DR Blackbeard
%J South African Family Practice
%D 2019
%R https://doi.org/10.1080/20786190.2019.1606491
%X Background: Understanding caregivers¡¯ challenges in caring for children with diabetes mellitus (DM) and their perceptions of consultations with the multidisciplinary team (MDT) may be valuable in assisting in achieving control. Methods: Using a qualitative descriptive design, anonymised, transcribed recorded data from semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of caregivers were thematically analysed in three areas: (a) challenges experienced in caring for their child, (b) feelings around MDT consultations pertaining to helpfulness, support and diabetes education, and (c) suggestions for clinic improvement. University of KwaZulu-Natal ethics committee approval and informed consent were obtained. Results: All caregivers (n£¿=£¿14) were female with a mean age of 38 years. Total diabetes caring experience was 47.4 years. The primary caregiver was the mother in nine interviews. Ten interviewees were unemployed. The children¡¯s ages ranged from 3 to 15 years with mean age at diagnosis of 6.7 years. Caregivers¡¯ challenges in caring were reflected in two global themes: ¡®DM care is difficult¡¯ and needs a ¡®process of adjustment¡¯ over time to accept and meet demands. These included emotional, practical, financial, behavioural and social challenges. Caregivers¡¯ feelings regarding overall consultations were mostly positive, including satisfaction. The MDT¡¯s helpfulness and support were perceived as patient-centred and meeting education and care needs. Negative feelings were frustration and boredom. Clinic improvement suggestions included shorter waiting times and seeing the same doctor for continuity of care. Conclusion: Caregivers in South Africa experienced caring for children with DM as difficult, requiring an adjustment process. Perceptions of consultations were mostly positive. Relevant clinic improvements were suggested
%U https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/20786190.2019.1606491