Managing Diabetes on the Autism Journey: Guidance through the McGill Nursing Model
Sevgim Küçük Ulak1
, Didar Zümrüt Başbakkal2
1Tepecik Training And Research Hospital, Child Health And Diseases Clinic, Izmir, Türkiye
2Ege University, Pediatric Nursing, Izmir, Türkiye
Keywords: mcgill nursing model, type 1 diabetes, autism spectrum disorder.
Abstract
This study presents the case of a 14-year-old diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) following a new diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, focusing on the nursing care and support provided during this transition. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, typically beginning in the pre-school years, characterized by challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as repetitive behaviors. Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand, is a chronic condition commonly seen in children, characterized by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. Managing these two coexisting conditions poses unique challenges, adding complexity to healthcare management for both the individual and their parents. In this context, the McGill Model of Nursing, which emphasizes leveraging the strengths of both the individual and their parents, is applied to promote their health potential and well-being. The McGill Model of Nursing assumes that all families have inherent health potential, and their capacity to overcome health-related challenges is central to promoting overall family well-being. The model seeks to enhance, empower, and sustain the health and resilience of individuals and families. It prioritizes developing, supporting, and complementing their abilities to manage current health conditions, diseases, challenges, and obstacles effectively. This study thoroughly examined the patient's hospitalization and treatment process, focusing on diabetes management, education, the discharge period, and post-discharge follow-up. The findings revealed that theory-based care significantly supported the adaptation process for both the child and the family.
Cite this article as: Kucuk Ulak S, Basbakkal DZ. Managing Diabetes on the Autism Journey: Guidance through the McGill Nursing Model. Pediatr Acad Case Rep. 2026;5(1):19-24.
The parents’ of this patient consent was obtained for this study.
The authors declared no conflicts of interest with respect to authorship and/or publication of the article.
The authors received no financial support for the research and/or publication of this article.