Adolescent and parent assessments of diabetes mellitus management at school

J Sch Health. 2004 May;74(5):166-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1746-1561.2004.tb08215.x.

Abstract

This study explored opinions, concerns, and recommendations regarding care of Type 1 diabetes in schools. Thirty adolescent females and their parents participated in semi- structured, individual interviews that were audiotaped, transcribed, coded, and qualitatively analyzed. Responses emerged in three categories: knowledge/training of school staff; foods offered/available at school; and school rules. Participants expressed concerns that school personnel, particularly classroom teachers, possess limited knowledge of diabetes; that healthy food/beverage options are limited in the cafeteria, vending machines, and classrooms; and that school rules impede self-care of diabetes. Implications for enhancing diabetes management at school are noted.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Adult
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1* / nursing
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1* / psychology
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Female
  • Food Services* / standards
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Education
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Midwestern United States
  • Parent-Child Relations
  • Parents*
  • Risk Factors
  • School Health Services / standards*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires