This study assessed knowledge, practice and factors influencing self-care practices among diabetic patients at a tertiary Hospital in South-South, Nigeria. Its goal was to determine the knowledge, practices as well as factors influencing self-care practices among diabetic patients in the studied setting. Population of study was 220, from which sample size of 142 respondents were derived using Taro Yamene formula. Multi-stage sampling techniques were used. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, means and percentages.  Results showed that knowledge of self-care management was high; skipping diabetes medication can worsen disease complications,(3.8±1.025); physical activities improves diabetes control (4.1±0.974); stress can affect blood sugar levels (3.6±1.098); diabetic education by healthcare providers influences practice of healthcare, (4.0±1.035) however, there is sub-optimal practice of self-care among the respondents;  only 35.2% always monitor their blood glucose level, 29.6% often engage in regular physical activities (like walking). 36.6% always follow diabetic meal plan, and 39.4% always attended regular medical check-up. Hindering factors include; financial constraint 47 (29.6%), lack of time 32(22.5%) and lack of motivation 27(19.0%), while motivating factors are; fear of complications 48(33.8%), family encouragement 39(27.4%) and healthcare provider’s advice 25(17.9%). Study concluded that there was high knowledge of self-care practice which has not translated into practice because there was sub-optimal practice observed. Also factors like financial constraint, lack of motivation and time hinders the practice of self-care while fear of complications, encouragement from family members and healthcare provider’s advice motivates adherence to self-care practices. The study emphasized the importance of addressing barriers and improving patient education and support to enhance self-care practices and outcomes among diabetic patients.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, knowledge, self-care practices, factors, influencing, motivating, hindering, patients.