Use of Case Studies to Teach Diabetes and Other Chronic Illnesses to Nursing Students

Nursing students frequently have difficulty understanding diabetes mellitus and other chronic illnesses. Using the active learning technique of the case study method enables students to understand the difficulty in taking care of clients with chronic illnesses. Three forms of the case study method are shared. The students are enlightened about clients' difficulty in taking care of themselves after the diagnosis of a chronic illness. The case study method is leveled and used to develop critical thinking by focusing on the client's needs and collaborating to solve problems. This enables students to develop a clearer understanding of the disease, how it affects clients and their needs, and responses to studies of the disease.