Improving the Self-Efficacy and Self-Management of Adult Patients with Type II Diabetes (T2DM) Through a Telehealth Program at an Outpatient Clinic

Authors

Uchechukwu N. IwuorieFollow

Author Biographical Info

My name is Uche Iwuorie. I am a second-year student at the University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Cizik School of Nursing, working towards obtaining my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. My specialization is Family Nurse Practitioner, and I am passionate about serving and caring for the underserved communities. After receiving my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, I have been a nurse for six years and work as a registered nurse in acute care services. During my leisure time, I enjoy singing, meditating, cooking, spending time with family and loved ones, volunteering, resting, exercising, and viewing nature.

Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion

2024

Faculty Advisor

Christen K. Goolsby

Abstract

Purpose

This eight-week quality improvement project implemented a cellphone-based reminder text intervention to improve self-efficacy and self-management practices among adults diagnosed with T2DM at an outpatient clinic in Tomball, Texas.

Background

The clinic serves underserved populations in Tomball. Over 20% of diabetic patients have a Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) above 9%. There is no program for T2DM self-management due to resources and staffing.

Methodology

Informed participants completed a recruitment packet and a self-efficacy survey before and after the intervention. Thirteen patients received two text messages biweekly from the clinic, on self-care reminders, recommended by the American Diabetes Association, along with an option to download a self-management tracking app called One Touch Reveal. Data were collected through surveys assessing self-efficacy, self-management, and post-project staff feedback, and patient evaluations of the telehealth program. Ongoing support was provided to staff as adjustments were made to the project based on the Plan-Do-Study-Act method.

Results

Response rates reduced from 13 respondents in the pre-implementation phase to eight in mid-intervention, and five in post-intervention. Results showed a 9.6% increase in self-efficacy and 100% participant engagement. Staff averaged 4= “likely” to support incorporating this project in a 5-point Likert Scale survey with 1= least likely and 5= very likely. There were positive responses in all the surveys. Only two patients utilized One Touch.

Implications

Implementing a telehealth program can potentially improve diabetes self-care practices, HbA1c, and the accessibility of care. Increasing the number of participants and allocating more time may improve sustainability and the project’s effectiveness.

Keywords

type II diabetes, self-management, self-efficacy, telehealth, text-messages, type II diabetes and text messaging, type II diabetes and self-management

Recommended Citation

Iwuorie, Uchechukwu N., "Improving the Self-Efficacy and Self-Management of Adult Patients with Type II Diabetes (T2DM) Through a Telehealth Program at an Outpatient Clinic" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 65.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/65