The impact of patient information leaflets to prevent hypoglycemia in out-patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Abstract
ABSTRACT Hypoglycemia is a significant complication of intensive diabetes therapy, a true medical emergency, which requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent organ and brain damage. Therefore, knowledge about diabetes can play an important role in maintaining glycemia control and prevent hypoglycemic complications. Aim: The aim of the study is to develop and assess the impact of patient information leaflets to prevent hypoglycemia in outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to study the effect of prescribed drugs pattern in patients. Material & Methods: This open labelled, interventional study was conducted in the endocrinology Out Patient Department (OPD) in a tertiary care hospital over a period of 9 months in 55 patients. The information was provided to patients through a developed patient information leaflet and their awareness and glycemic status were assessed by an internally institution developed vernacular language based validated questionnaire. The questionnaire with four different dimensions patient knowledge, glycemic control, compliance and life style was quantified in the study. Results: The study showed statistically significant (P<0.05) improvement in knowledge and glycemic control in male patients and in knowledge, compliance, and glycemic control for female patients. Literate patients showed more significant improvement in knowledge, compliance, life style, and glycemic control than illiterate patients. Conclusions: Results of the study suggested that pharmacist provided patient education and awareness helped type 2 diabetic hypoglycemic patients to improve knowledge and glycaemic control.
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