THE DIVISION OF THE CARE OF THE CHILD OR ADOLESCENT WITH TYPE I DIABETES WITH THE FAMILY

Abstract

Descriptive study with a qualitative approach, aiming to understand how the family care for children and adolescents with type I diabetes mellitus takes place. Interviews were held with seven family members in April – June 2012. The data obtained through the semistructured interviews were subjected to content analysis of the thematic modality. Two thematic categories emerged, which revealed the transformations which occur in these families’ lives, with emphasis placed on those with dietary restrictions and the lack of appropriate support on the part of social networks, friends and other family members. In this way, one can see the need for continuous education, not only for the family members who live with this child/adolescent on a daily basis, but also for all of those professionals involved in the care, as well as members of the extended family.

Keywords

• Diabetes mellitus
• Child
• Adolescent
• Family