Effect of Educational Program on Quality of Life for Critically Ill Patients having diabetic retinopathy

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) which negatively affects the quality of life (QoL). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of an educational program on the quality of life for critically ill patients having diabetic retinopathy. Research Design: Quasi-experimental research design was utilized in this study. Sampling: A purposive sample of 80 critically ill patients divided equally into study and control groups. Setting: Ophthalmology Damietta Hospital. Instruments: Two instruments were used. Instrument one- a structured interview questionnaire sheet. Instrument two- Vision-related quality of life questionnaire. Results: It was found that 72% and 78% patients in the study and control groups respectively suffered from blurred vision. Post implementing the program; patients in the study groups were more keen in performing personal hygiene, eating a suitable meal, practicing walking, adhering to treatment more than patients in the control group(62.0% Vs 34.0%), (60.0% Vs 36.0%), (66.0% Vs 36.0%) and (58.0%Vs 38.0%) consequently.  Conclusion: Applying the educational program was effective in improving patients' quality of life. Recommendation: Health care providers involving ophthalmic nurses should be fully aware of their educational roles in improving the knowledge, self-care practices, and QoL of DR patients. Psychotherapy activities were urgently needed in order to improve the psychological status of DR patients.