Awareness among nursing students about care for children with type 1 diabetes

Background
Diabetes, due to its prevalence and the rapid increase in the number of new incidences, has been recognized as an epidemic of the 21st century. It is estimated that over 3 million people in Poland currently suffer from this disease. According to the Ministry of Health, the knowledge of the society about diabetes is too little and insufficient. The aim of the study was to investigate and present general and expert knowledge of nursing students about type 1 diabetes, taking into account the needs of a child and the specialist skills required to care for diabetic children.

Material and methods
The study was conducted among the students of nursing at Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biała Podlaska. A questionnaire designed by the author was used in this study.

Results
The respondents reported that they possess basic knowledge about type 1 diabetes and at the same time are willing to learn more. They recognize that a child with type 1 diabetes requires special support, therefore medical personnel, educators and physical education teachers should have relevant knowledge and skills about care for type 1 diabetic children.

Conclusions
The majority of the students surveyed had a basic knowledge and skills enabling them to provide assistance to children with type 1 diabetes and are familiar with their needs. The significance of physical activity in the life of a child with type 1 diabetes was known to a lesser extent. The students surveyed are willing to broaden their knowledge about type 1 diabetes.