Nurse Perspectives on Supporting Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes within a Primary Care Setting

Practice nurses in primary care are at the forefront of care for patients living with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This article conveys research that investigated how nurses support the self-management of patients living with T2DM. The aim is to explore the practice nurses experience and role in managing T2DM patients within the primary care setting. A qualitative research approach was employed that included semi-structured interviews with eight practice nurses. A process of thematic analysis established the key content of these interviews. This article conveys the principal themes identified in relation to the support of patient self-management: skills and dispositional qualities; accessing resources; and medication and prescribing. The article concludes that diabetes management is not just about the clinical management of T2DM but more expansively supporting the patient to live well with the condition. This is a challenge in the context of resource constraints and shifting role parameters.