BACKGROUND
Diabetes has become a global public health problem. Strengthening the self-management ability of people with prediabetes plays an important role in preventing the occurrence and development of type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study is to synthesise the self-management experiences and perceptions of people with prediabetes, which can contribute to the development of self-management programs.


METHODS
This review adheres to the ENTREQ Guide. Evidence-based medicine database (JBI and Cochrane) and original literature database (PubMed, Medline, EMbase, Web of Science, Wanfang, CNKI and VIP) were searched up to 31 May 2022. Both Chinese and English literature of qualitative research on self-management experiences and perceptions of prediabetic patients were included. The quality of the included studies was evaluated, and the data were synthesised and analysed by thematic synthesis method.


RESULTS
A total of 23 primary studies containing 504 participants were included. After repeated reading and coding of the literature, three analytical themes were finally identified: coping with role management, success and failure in medical management, seeking and perceiving support.


CONCLUSION
Role management for people with prediabetes needs more attention. Healthcare providers should identify problems from patients' self-management experiences and improve professional skills to assist program modifications. Integrating the self-management program into community activities under the guidance of medical staff and inviting family members and peers to participate can increase involvement and improve the self-management ability.


RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE
These findings describe the different stages and issues in the self-management process of prediabetic patients. The practice of prediabetes self-management should incorporate the psychosocial, physical, and financial issues of the patients. As the main provider of health services, nurses should make patients aware of the susceptibility and severity of prediabetes and help them improve their self-management skills.


NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION
This is a meta-synthesis without direct participation of patients.