Children with type 1 diabetes mellitus: strengths and weaknesses in the management of this disease - DOI: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v8i2.8211

Abstract

Brazilian and international literature have shown a considerable increase in the incidence of diabetes mellitus in children, and that individualized and knowledgeable care by health team professionals is essential to reach treatment goals. This study aims to provide a reflection on factors working in favor or against the management of this disease in childhood, with a view to contribute to the improvement of interdisciplinary team work and improving the quality of life of these children and their relatives. The addressed themes include partnership with the family, the importance of social support and the social network, besides the valorization of individuals’ experiences and the interaction among health team, children and their families. These elements can constitute strengths or weaknesses in the management of this disease, and their identification by health professionals, especially nurses, can help them to select creative interventions that support the children and their relatives in coping with the disease, consequently improving care delivery.