Abstract
Objective:
To evaluate the experience of mothers of children with diabetes mellitus type 1 (DM1).
Methods:
This qualitative study evaluated five mothers of children with DM1 treated at the clinic of a public hospital in October 2014. The data were analysed considering Humanistic Nursing Theory.
Results:
The following topics emerged: the behaviour of the mothers after their children were diagnosed with DM1; maternal care as a self-giving relationship (an I-You relationship); the difficulties faced by mothers in caring for children with DM1; the conflictual coexistence between children with DM1 and their mothers; the mothers' receipt of support from the family and the multi-professional team (a We relationship); and the behaviour of the mothers in the face of the fear of death.
Conclusion:
In the I-You relationship established between the researcher and the mothers, we observed that the care that they provide to their children is full of engagement, love, sensitivity, and accountability, despite the difficulties and conflicts faced.
Keywords:
Children; Mothers; Diabetes Mellitus Type 1; Nursing