PHARMACEUTICAL CARE IN DIABETES MANAGEMENT

EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL ON INSULIN PENS AND TREATMENT FOR PEOPLE WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that can cause microvascular complications such as diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Visual impairment, often associated with diabetes, hinders disease management, especially insulin administration. This context highlights the need for adapted educational materials to promote safety and autonomy in patient treatment. Objective: To report the experience of developing an adapted educational material on the correct use of the insulin pen and diabetes management for people with visual impairments, contributing to health education within the context of pharmaceutical consultations. Experience report: The idea for developing the material arose during a consultation of the Municipal Diabetes Supply Distribution Program (PMDID), held at a municipal pharmacy in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, involving a child with type 1 diabetes and his mother, a person with low vision. The material developed included enlarged images and explanatory audio guides to instruct on insulin pen use and general health care. It was used at a healthcare unit and a public pharmacy in Porto Alegre. The material was well received by users, who reported improved understanding and autonomy during follow-up consultations. In the future, the material should undergo validation as a health education tool. Conclusion: The adapted educational material proved to be a viable and low-cost alternative to reduce barriers faced by people with visual impairments. The initiative reinforces the pharmacist’s role in health education, highlighting its potential for replication in other contexts, such as health units and pharmacies in different cities. Further evaluation will be necessary to qualify and expand the impact of this initiative.