NURSING CARE FOR PATIENTES WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AT LOBITO REGIONAL HOSPITAL-ANGOLA

Abstract

This article aimed to evaluate the nursing care provided to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Lobito Regional Hospital, Angola. This was a descriptive and exploratory study with a qualitative-quantitative approach, conducted with 12 nursing professionals from the Medicine section, intentionally selected from a population of 17 professionals. Data were collected through observation and a questionnaire survey. The results showed a predominance of female participants (83.3%), mid-level technical training (91.7%), and professional experience ranging from one to five years (66.7%). Half of the participants reported having received specific training on type 2 diabetes mellitus, while 75% stated that the topic was addressed infrequently by the institution. Pharmacological treatment was reported by 75% of the participants. The nursing practices most frequently mentioned included continuous education of patients and their families, assessment of vital signs, administration of prescribed medications, and emotional support. According to 83.3% of the professionals, nursing care contributed to the clinical improvement of patients. It is concluded that the findings reinforce the relevance of continuous professional training and the expansion of care practices beyond a predominantly pharmacological approach.