Objective:

To analyze the knowledge and self-efficacy of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional and quantitative study was conducted in a public hospital in Recife, PE, with 86 individuals with diabetes. Sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were analyzed, in addition to knowledge and self-efficacy in diabetes, using the Diabetes Knowledge Scale and the Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale, respectively. Descriptive statistics and Student's t-test for independent samples were used to verify homogeneity and compare means.

Results:

Most patients were female, under 60, with low education, low income, and inadequate diabetes control. Insufficient knowledge and low self-efficacy prevailed. Sufficient knowledge positively interfered with self-efficacy regarding physical exercise, and insufficient knowledge interfered with self-efficacy for blood glucose control. Individuals were self-efficacious regardless of age.

Conclusion:

Individuals with diabetes have insufficient knowledge and low self-efficacy, and nurses need to consider these aspects when planning nursing interventions aimed at these persons to promote self-care.

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