Dignity Therapy and Its Impact on Dignity and Fasting Blood Sugar in Patients with Diabetes: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Document Type : Original Quantitative and Qualitative Research Paper

Authors

1 Nursing Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

2 Medical surgical nursing, Nursing school, Kerman Medical university

10.22038/ebcj.2025.84073.3062

Abstract

Background: Diabetes is a chronic condition that leads to significant health complications, including blood sugar management, emotional distress, and challenges to personal dignity. Dignity therapy is a promising intervention to enhance psychological well-being and self-worth.
Aim: This study investigated the impact of dignity therapy on dignity and fasting blood sugar in patients with diabetes.
Method: A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 60 diabetic patients in Fars Province, Iran in 2023-2024. Participants were randomly assigned to control and intervention groups. The intervention group received dignity therapy in three sessions over 10 days. Dignity and Fasting blood sugar levels were assessed before, immediately after, and one month following the intervention by Patient Dignity Inventory (PDI) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) check list. Data were analyzed using SPSS15. Descriptive statistics, independent tests and one single repeated measures ANOVA were used to analysis.
Results: Significant reductions in dignity-related distress were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group, immediately after and one month after the intervention (p=0.001). While no significant difference in fasting blood sugar was observed immediately after the intervention, a significant reduction was found in the intervention group one month later (p=0.001).
Implications for Practice: Healthcare providers should incorporate dignity therapy into diabetes management, particularly for patients experiencing psychological distress. By addressing emotional well-being, care quality can improve, leading to better long-term outcomes, such as lower fasting blood sugar levels one month post-intervention. This holistic approach prioritizes both physical and emotional needs, fostering a supportive healthcare environment.

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