Implementation of a Family Emergency Action Plan for Families of People with Diabetes

Family Emergency Action Plan for Diabetes

Abstract

 Acute complications of diabetes require families to recognize warning signs and initiate safe first-response measures while seeking professional care. This community service program evaluated immediate changes in family knowledge and observed emergency-response skills after delivery of a Family Emergency Action Plan. The program was conducted on 15–16 April 2026 in Ko’mara Village, North Polongbangkeng District, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Twenty-five adults from families with a history of diabetes participated. The activities comprised health screening, an immediate pre-test, interactive education supported by presentation slides and a leaflet, demonstration and return demonstration of first aid for severe hypoglycemia, stress-management guidance, discussion, and an immediate post-test. A one-group pre-test–post-test descriptive evaluation was used. Knowledge was assessed with an organizer-developed questionnaire covering diabetes, acute warning signs, and initial family responses. Skills were assessed using an observation checklist during return demonstration. The proportion categorized as having good knowledge increased from 7 of 25 participants (28%) before education to 21 of 25 (84%) immediately afterward. Observations also indicated that participants could practice key response steps with facilitator guidance, but aggregate checklist scores were not available. The findings describe short-term learning after the program and do not establish effectiveness or prevention of acute complications. Follow-up assessment with a validated instrument is needed to determine retention and independent performance.