The effect of diabetes education given to children with type 1 diabetes mellitus with digital games and video animation on quality of life.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to examine the effects of diabetes education given to children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus with digital game and video animation on quality of life and metabolic control.

DESIGN AND

METHODS

The study was an experimental single-blind, randomized controlled design. It was conducted with a total of 55 children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, consisting of a study (n = 27) and a control group (n = 28). Data were collected by the "Introductory Information Form", "Pediatric Quality of Life 3.0 Diabetes Mellitus Module (PedsQL 3.0)" and "Metabolic Control Parameters Monitoring Form". Data were analyzed with Mann Whitney U, Chi square, Friedman and Bonferroni Dunn tests.

RESULTS

The descriptive characteristics of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus were homogeneous. The total mean quality of life scores of children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0,05). The average HbA1c scores of the children in the study group decreased (p < 0,05), while the average HbA1c scores of the control group increased (p < 0,05).

CONCLUSIONS

Digital game and video animation based education was found to be effective in improving the quality of life of children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and reducing HbA1c.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Providing diabetes education to children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus with digital games and video animations can facilitate diabetes management.