Att aldrig släppa taget : Distriktssköterskans erfarenhet av att ge stöd till patienter med typ 2 diabetes och allvarlig psykisk ohälsa

Sammanfattning: Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and serious mental illness involves major public health problems in the world. People with severe mental illness have an increased risk of metabolic abnormalities and obesity, leading to an increased incidence for T2DM. District nurses with advanced training in diabetes care will in their profession give support to lifestyle changes and healthy living habits. Aim The purpose of this study was to illuminate district nurses´ experience of how they can support people with T2DM and serious mental illness.Method A qualitative methodology based on individual interviews analyzed with qualitative content analysis was used. Twelve informants were part of the study. Results The individual meeting with mutual relations and respect for individuals was important. During periods of worsening mental health of the patient, the district nurses provide support and monitoring, adjusted to the patients' ability. The district nurses felt inadequacy and frustration when the patients' physical and mental health were deteriorating. The strategy was to acknowledge progress when small improvements were made and extended contacts with nurses in out-patient psychiatry were requested. Conclusion Support was designed as respectful treatments and individual meetings were prioritized. District nurses' strategies were to guide the patient by positive attitudes according to the individual, and by giving support adapted to the needs of the patient. Despite feelings of insufficiency the district nurses never gave up and conveyed the message to never let go. Cooperation and extended contact with open psychiatry were desirable to exchange knowledge, giving accordance in decisions and messages.