Background:

Lifestyle changes are one of the first steps in order to prevent or treat diabetes type II. Lifestyle changes have been shown to be difficult to fulfill, and therefore, nurses’ motivational work is an important part of the changing process. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe how nurses can motivate patients with type II diabetes to make necessary lifestyle changes. Method: A literature review based on both qualitative and quantitative studies was conducted. Nine articles were analyzed and similar content was divided into themes and subthemes. The result was divided into two perspectives: patient-perspective and nurse-perspective. Results: The patient-perspective resulted in three themes; structure in everyday life, encouragement and perception of quality of life. Subthemes were created from the theme encouragement. The nurse-perspective resulted in four themes: goal setting, tools, support and education. Subthemes were constructed from the theme education. The main findings were that nurses can motivate patients to make lifestyle changes by supporting them and providing them with knowledge. By giving the patients strategies for solving problems, and help them to create goals, the nurses can help motivate patients to make lifestyle changes. Conclusion: The present study shows that patients are more likely to accomplish successful and sustainable lifestyle changes if they learn ways to solve problems and are encouraged and helped to accomplish daily routines. Support and education from a nurse during the changing process appear to be vital for patients with diabetes type II