Introduction : Assessment of patients’ educational needs, knowledge level, self-care training, positive attitudes, consistency, and proper functioning is effective in controlling chronic diseases such as diabetes. Thus, in this study, we aimed to assess the relationship between self-care and educational needs in diabetic patients, admitted to Amir-Al-Momenin Hospital in Zabol, Iran.

  Methodology : This semi-experimental study was conducted on diabetic patients, referring to Amir-Al-Momenin Hospital in Zabol. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which consisted of three sections: 1) demographic characteristics 2) prior history of diseases and 3) dietary habits (16 items), disease control and management (13 items), and disease prevention (13 items). Descriptive and analytical statistics were applied, using SPSS software.

  Results : Our findings showed that the majority of subjects (72%) had type 2 diabetes. Overall, 80%, 75%, and 60% of the participants had insufficient knowledge regarding disease control and management, disease prevention, and diet, respectively. The majority of subjects (82%) had poor self-care before determining their educational needs however, after 6 months, self-care in the majority (91%) of participants was claimed to be proper. The results showed a significant relationship between self-care and educational needs (P<0.05). Moreover, a significant correlation was observed between educational level and self-care (P=0.015).

  Conclusion : Assessment of educational needs and self-care training in diabetic patients is a valuable and important strategy in controlling diabetes. The positive effect of training has been confirmed in various studies. Thus, trained nurses at hospitals should educate diabetic patients with regard to self-care.