Abstrait

Study relation between information technology and glycemic control of children with type 1 diabetes

Eljerjawy MF

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disorder of metabolism characterized by a partial or complete deficiency of the insulin hormone that result in elevation of the blood glucose level.

Aim: The study aimed to study the relation between information technology and glycemic control of children suffering from Type 1 diabetes in Gaza Strip.

Subjects and Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was utilized in this study (pre- test/ post-test). This intervention study was carried out on 80 children suffering from Type 1 diabetes. Attending diabetes clinic in Palestinian Medical Relief Society, Gaza city from March 2012 to August 2012. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data about socio-demographic characteristics of the children (pretest posttest questioner) about information technology and glycemic control knowledge and practice, also blood glucose result was taken from those children. According to the deficit needs of the children the information technology program was designed.

Results: Study results revealed that there was a statistical significant difference between pre and post test program intervention in most items related to diabetic children knowledge and practice about information technology and diabetes mellitus. After information technology intervention a significant improvement was revealed in children's' knowledge and practice with lowering of their mean levels of blood glucose.

Conclusion: The study concluded that educational information technology based intervention was effective as well as their knowledge, and practice towards diabetes and blood sugar levels. Recommendation: The study recommended apply such educational intervention using information technology program in other diabetic clinics for teaching diabetic children hygienic care, diet, and compliance to medical staff instructions regarding diabetes management.