Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of elderly diabetes patients regarding home emergency management of acute complications.

Aims: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of elderly diabetic patients regarding the home emergency management of acute diabetic complications, which is critical for preventing severe outcomes and ensuring timely intervention in emergencies.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2024 at the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, among all elderly diabetic patients who voluntarily participated. Demographic information and KAP scores were evaluated.

Results: A total of 409 valid questionnaires were analyzed, yielding an effective rate of 98.32 %. Among the participants, 218 (53.3 %) were female, and 134 (32.76 %) had been diagnosed with diabetes for less than 1 year. The mean scores for KAP were 12.98 ± 6.65 (possible range: 0-28), 45.76 ± 6.30 (possible range: 11-55), and 51.74 ± 8.24 (possible range: 13-65), respectively. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that education level, diabetes health education, and main treatment method significantly influenced knowledge. Additionally, knowledge and complicating diseases impacted attitude, while both knowledge and attitude strongly influenced practice. Education level, diabetes health education, and main treatment method also indirectly affected attitude and practice.

Conclusion: Elderly diabetic patients demonstrated inadequate knowledge but exhibited generally positive attitudes and practices regarding the home emergency management of acute diabetic complications.