Abstract

Since 1991 the diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes in children has increased at an alarming rate. Researchers have identified some common descriptors which may be predictive of early assessment and intervention for this population. Further validation of established descriptors and identification of other descriptors are needed. In this retrospective descriptive study, one research question guided the study: What are the demographic characteristics of children with Type 2 diabetes at the time of diagnosis? The Neuman Systems Model (198 9) provided the theoretical framework. Data were collected using the Hammett Chart Survey with 3 9 review variables. Charts from three endocrinology clinics were reviewed, yielding a sample (N = 63) with a mean age of 14 years ; the majority were African American and female. Variables were subdivided into five categories : history, health, stress, diagnostic, and nutrition. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The researcher concluded that at diagnosis the typical client had a strong maternal history of diabetes, especially Type 2, was centrally obese and hypertensive, iii and presented with a weight gain of more than 5 pounds. Initial laboratory values revealed a blood sugar of 250, hemoglobin of 8.98, and no islet cell antibodies. Implications for advanced practice nursing include screening children at risk, educating clients regarding Type 2 diabetes, and developing a universal diabetic screening tool for children. Recommendations for further research include replication of the study with a revised instrument and implementation of a qualitative study to clarify descriptors related to the child's culture and behavior.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Department

Graduate Nursing

Degree Date

8-1-1999

Publication Number

27924569

First Advisor

Mary Patricia Curtis

Second Advisor

Sandra Faukner

Document Type

Thesis

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