Developmental approach to nursing care of children with diabetes

Abstract

This paper is to present a developmental approach to nursing care of children with diabetes, using research findings obtained by the author at the university diabetic clinic for children during the past 10 years. Assessment criteria regarding developmental components are shown. Self care behaviors, school life and home life activities are the major areas of assessment and include understandings and feelings as well as self management skills. Developmental processes of self-care behaviors, stress in school life, effects of life changes during childhood, importance of social support are discussed. In conclusion, the author maintains the followings as nurse's approach to promote the development of diabetic children. (1) Assess the developmental properties in daily self care behaviors, school life and home life activities and facilitate them. (2) Estimate developmental problems to be encountered and help the child and his family with precoping. (3) Pay much attention to and make good use of the effect of life change and meeting people. (4) Promote positive, assertive attitude of children and their families. (5) Be helpful to all children and families with thinking together as a person near them. key words: diabetic children, developmental approach, self-care behavior.