Diabetes Self-Care of People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Outpatients in Riyadh Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background The purpose of this research was to explore the self-care behaviors of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DMT2) patients visiting outpatient departments in Riyadh hospitals and to analyze the correlation between demographic profiles and their compliance with prescribed self-care activities. Methods Using a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional design, information was gathered from 300 outpatients using the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) questionnaire. The instrument assessed self-care activities in areas of diet, exercise, blood glucose testing, foot care, and medication. Results Findings indicated that participants demonstrated moderate compliance with exercise (mean = 3.27) and foot care (mean = 3.80), but low compliance was evident in diet (M-3.04) and medication (3.09). Although under medical care, most respondents indicated minimal guidance from healthcare providers, particularly on footcare and exercise advice. Regression analysis showed no strong association between the majority of demographic variables (age, gender, marital status, education level) and diabetes self-care activities, with the exception of a weak but statistically significant correlation in the blood sugar testing area (p = 0.042). These results confirm the null hypothesis that demographic variables are not strongly related to self-care practice. Conclusion The research highlights the importance of having healthcare providers give consistent, individualized education and counseling to diabetic patients, particularly on underperformed areas such as blood sugar monitoring. Enhanced patient knowledge and motivation through ongoing follow-up and education could increase compliance with self-care practices and decrease the risk of diabetes complications. The results highlight the important role of healthcare teams and nurses in empowering patients with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage diabetes effectively.