674-P: Information Overload following a Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis—The Need for Ongoing Diabetes Education

Introduction & Objective: A T1D diagnosis is unexpected and life-changing. We assessed families’ experiences following diagnosis, including initial responses and needs.

Methods: Focus groups with children (ages 8-12; n=10), teens (13+; n=11), and parents (under 8 years n=12; 8-12 years old n=15; 13+ n=12) explored feelings, challenges, and experiences of that first year. Using thematic analysis and deductive coding, data informed the development of a psychosocial intervention (Triple T) to support families during that first year via brief videos and scheduled telehealth visits with behavioral health specialists. Exit interviews (n= 17) were subsequently examined.

Results: Youth and parents reported the initial diagnosis and the education they received were overwhelming. Parents shared difficulties remembering everything and keeping track of the data. Anxiety around diabetes management and concerns about glycemic excursions, carbohydrate and insulin calculations, and injection frequency were raised. Most parents reported an expectation of perfection in glycemic outcomes. Frustrations were expressed that the education received was “textbook” versus “real life.” Results also suggest that families forgot initial educational topics, as many expressed a desire to learn about managing highs/lows and insulin dosing. These findings were supported by data from Triple T. While all families reported benefits in regular meetings with behavioral health specialists, they continued to express diabetes education needs regarding nutrition, glycemic variability, and technology.

Conclusions: An approach to education at diagnosis that promotes the integration of knowledge and provides families with increased psychosocial support and reassurance is needed. Providing a review of basic education soon after discharge and scheduling check-ins with educators independent of clinic visits may help ensure that families are able to digest pertinent education and use it in everyday practice.