Abstract
This qualitative study aims to improve understanding of the self-care behavior and social support in adolescent patients with IBD, in order to apply the findings in nursing practice. Four patients aged 14 to 21 were interviewed in this study using semistructured interviews, and their responses were analyzed qualitatively and inductively. Six themes could be formulated as a result of their responses, namely: 1) communicating with others about the condition and the daily challenges it causes; 2) receiving treatment based on the patient's understanding of the condition; 3) consultation is necessary only on an emergency basis, not daily; 4) consultation can only take place with those who understand the condition well; 5) preparing for possible problems; 6) trying to find an individual way of living with the condition. It is important for nurses to have a trust-based relationship with patients while watching patients' behavior closely in order to understand how they cope personally with IBD.
