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Visual acuity in the management of diabetes mellitus: preparation of the insulin dose

Abstract

Objective

To assess the near visual acuity of people who prepare insulin doses.

Methods

Cross-sectional study developed at 20 Primary Health Care services between April 2013 and January 2015. The convenience sample consisted of 65 diabetes mellitus patients and 35 caregivers responsible for preparing the insulin dose. A form was used with sociodemographic and clinical variables and the Jaeger eye chart.

Results

The near visual acuity in the preparation of insulin doses was 40% lower in the patients and 20% in the caregivers. A statistically significant association was found between reduced near visual acuity and economic class (p=0.032) and age range (p=0.024) for patients, and reduced near visual acuity and age (p=0.024) for caregivers.

Conclusion

The near visual acuity was compromised and specific protocols need to be constructed for use in Primary Health Care.

Visual acuity; Diabetes mellitus; Insulin; Diabetes complications; Primary health care

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