The Development of a Care Model for Pregnant Women at Risk of Gestational Diabetes at Health Promotion Hospital, Reginal Health Promotion Center 1, Chiang Mai

Abstract

Gestational diabetes is a significant risk factor that increases the likelihood of complications for both pregnant women and their fetuses. It also raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Meanwhile, infants are at risk of being overweight, experiencing shoulder dystocia during delivery, and developing hypoglycemia after birth, which can lead to long-term chronic health issues. This research aims to develop a model, examine the outcomes of its implementation, and assess the feasibility of applying it to the care of women at risk for gestational diabetes in health promotion hospitals in Chiang Mai. This study used participation action research methodology, conducted in three phases: 1) a literature review on care guidelines and risk factors associated with GDM, 2) development of an effective care approach in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, and 3) evaluation of the care model’s effectiveness with a sample of high-risk pregnant women. Data collection tools included a questionnaire assessing motivation and preventive behaviors for gestational diabetes. The reliability of the entire questionnaire was confirmed with a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.87. The sample consisted of 52 high-risk pregnant women, divided into an experimental group (26 participants) and a control group (26 participants). Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and t-tests. Qualitative data regarding the feasibility of implementing the care model were summarized into key themes.

Research findings indicate that the developed care model demonstrates that the program not only enhances motivation but also encourages pregnant women to apply their knowledge in adopting behaviors to prevent diabetes. The study revealed that pregnant women in the experimental group showed significant improvements in awareness and knowledge related to risk management. Moreover, they made statistically significant changes in their dietary and exercise behaviors (p<0.001). The care model can be effectively applied in healthcare settings to manage high-risk pregnancies and promote the health of mothers and their unborn children.