Abstract
Background: The incidence of diabetes growing worldwide, it can have a large impact on the lives of those it effects. Type 1 diabetes is normally diagnosed in childhood, it requires constant management and daily injection of insulin. This can cause significant concern for adolescents as they move from parent controlled management to self-management.
Aim: The aim of this integrative review is to explore the views and experiences of adolescents living with Type 1 diabetes.
Methodology: A comprehensive search of five databases was completed: CINAHL, and Ovid databases: AMED, ApA psycInfo, Medline, and Nursing Database. The articles were subject to quality appraisal using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools, initially completed by the author, followed by their supervisor. JBI data extraction tables were utilised, and suitable data was analysed following Braun and Clark's (2006) model for thematic analysis.
Results: Fourteen articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this review.Thematic analysis uncovered three key themes: dealing with the diagnosis, the juggling act of living with T1DM, and support networks.
Conclusion: This review explored the lives of adolescents with T1DM, it uncovered many obstacles which they face on a daily basis with management of their diabetes in relation to school,relationships and general life. The findings provide insight into adolescents' preferences for interactions with parents and healthcare professionals, with support and encouragement preferred over conflict and criticism.