Role of a School Nurse in the Management of Type 1 Diabetes in Schools: Teachers' Perspectives
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder and carries the risk of causing serious complications and/or death in the patient. In the school environment, diabetic students need monitoring and support to ensure their health. Teacher perceptions can impact T1D management in schools by influencing their preparedness, support strategies, and response to emergencies. The aim of this study was to assess attitudes and perceptions of teachers regarding the role of a school nurse in the management of students with T1DM in the school environment. METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted in two primary schools with a final sample of 10 teachers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews using an 11-item open-ended questionnaire. Ethical considerations ensured confidentiality and voluntary participation. Thematic analysis was employed to categorize responses into conceptual units, following an inductive approach. This method, chosen for its strength in capturing the complexity of teachers' experiences and perceptions, provided an in-depth exploration of their perspectives on the role of school nurses in managing students with T1DM. RESULTS: Three main themes emerged from the thematic analysis. The first theme was Knowledge and Understanding of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, the second was Knowledge and Perceptions of Teachers Regarding the Role of the School Nurse in Supporting Students With Diabetes, and the third was Collaboration and Interaction Levels Between Teachers and the School Nurse. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that school nurses play a key role in supporting students with diabetes, contributing to their equal inclusion in the school environment. The findings suggest that enhanced collaboration between teachers and nurses, combined with targeted teacher training, can promote a holistic and supportive approach to student care, improving their school life and overall well-being.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.81526
Language: English
Subfield: Speech and Hearing
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409011883