Outcomes for type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with diverse regimens

Aims and objectives To compare the levels of self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients who underwent three regimens: taking medicine, taking‐medicine‐while dieting and taking‐medicine‐while‐dieting‐with exercise. Background Diabetes treatment is a critical concern worldwide. However, studies on self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life based on diabetes patients' diverse regimens are few. Design This study was a cross‐sectional design. Methods We enroled 127 outpatients aged over 40 years who visited a metabolism clinic at a medical centre in Southern Taiwan. The Self‐care Behaviour Scale, Social Support Scale and Quality of Life Scale were used to collect data. Results The results indicated that patients with a combined regimen of taking‐medicine‐while‐dieting‐with‐regular exercise had the highest score at the levels of social support, self‐care behaviour and quality of life. Conclusion The study results could offer evidence‐based knowledge for healthcare professionals to guide and promote social support, self‐care behaviour and quality of life for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Relevance to clinical practice These findings will help healthcare professionals to establish appropriate nursing strategies for type 2 diabetes patients who need to exercise regularly as part of their daily care to enhance their self‐care behaviour, social support and quality of life.