P-513: Breaking the family circle: a first-of-its-kind training model for domestic caregivers and non-family companions in type 1 diabetes management-Kuwait experience

Introduction

Type1Diabetes requires relentless daily management, yet a critical gap exists in the healthcare system:the formal training of non-family domestic caregivers. While clinical education typically targets patients and parents, these secondary caregivers often bear significant responsibility without foundational knowledge.

Objectives

The program evaluates a unique intervention specifically designed for this underserved demographic, aiming to improve caregiver self-efficacy, a known mediator of care-related distress and patient safety.

Methods

1-day intensive workshop was developed as a novel, precision-education model. This curriculum was tailored for domestic companions, with hands-on practice with insulin pens and glucometers, and scenario-based emergency response training. The program’s impact was evaluated through a pre- and post-intervention analysis (N=16) across 10 core competencies. Statistical significance was determined using a paired-samples t-test.

Results: statistically significant improvement in confidence across all measured domains (p = 0.003).The aggregate mean confidence score rose from 26.0/50 to 43.0/50, marking a 65% overall increase.The most substantial growth was observed in “Understanding the Causes of Hypoglycemia,” which improved by 128 % . Technical mastery was highest in “Acting on High Blood Sugar” (Mean: 4.63/5). Carbohydrate counting saw significant gains; the management of insulin pumps remained the lowest final mean ( 3.81/5 ), identifying a specific target for future specialized modules.

Conclusions

This workshop represents a pioneering approach by addressing the specific training needs of non-family companions. transforming a group with low baseline confidence into a competent “first-response” support team, this program proves that short-term, high-impact interventions can successfully bridge the caregiver knowledge gap. these findings suggest that including all members of the care circle, especially non-family companions, is vital for a robust and safe diabetes management strategy.