DIABETES

Nursing Research on Diabetes

Abstract

In this paper we try to explore the subject of nursing care with specific reference to patients with diabetes. The main focus of this research is a nursing project that seeks to improve the knowledge and awareness of the healthcare nurses about the medical needs of diabetic patients and measures that ensure their efficient provision.

Table of Contents

Abstractii

Introduction1

Nursing Care for Diabetes Patients1

Description of the Research Project1

Sample Description2

Background2

Analysis of the Project3

Conclusion5

References6

Nursing Research on Diabetes

Introduction

Nurses had identified gaps in knowledge and varying practice in regards to the care of the patient with diabetes. Nursing research also supports a gap in basic knowledge of diabetes care. The purpose of this study is to describe what measures and reforms can be introduced to optimize the care of the patient with diabetes through empowerment of healthcare nurses.

The paper analyzes the findings achieved by a project carried out by two Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), through the implementation of a Diabetes Nursing Resource Committee (DNRC).

Nursing Care for Diabetes Patients

Description of the Research Project

As part of a collaborative agreement between an acute care tertiary hospital and a college of nursing two CNS students were supported by their organization and their master's degree program chair to complete their project. The project was chosen based on the CNS students' awareness that nurses were requesting a diabetes resource nurse (DRN) for each unit. The CNS students saw an opportunity to empower nurses to improve the care of the patient with diabetes. The development of the DNRC was the first step. The American Association of Critical Care Nurses Synergy Model was used as a framework for the committee.

The development and implementation of the committee included:

Gaining administrative support.

Establishing Registered Nurse representation from each nursing unit.

Conducting a nursing education needs assessment.

Analyzing current system processes and failures.

Educating, mentoring and developing the Diabetes Resource Nurse.

Implementing process improvement projects with committee members.

Conducting ongoing evaluation of system processes and practice issues (Curley, 2007).

Sample Description

This Diabetes Nursing Resource Committee was established in a tertiary care health system. The members were self-selected and included 28 Registered Nurses from two hospitals within the health system.

Background

Diabetes is reaching an epidemic proportion in the United States. It is estimated that 20 million people are affected by diabetes and another 26% have impaired fasting glucose. Also, it is estimated that 57 million people are considered to have pre-diabetes, a condition which raises the risk factor for the development of type II diabetes (Drass, 2009). The prevalence and progression of diabetes has increased over time and will have significant implications in the acute care setting. Uncontrolled diabetes has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and most likely under reported as the cause of death. The diagnosis of diabetes alone doubles an individual¡¦s risk of death compared to someone of the same age without diabetes. Serious complications from diabetes include heart disease, stroke, renal failure, hypertension, blindness, neuropathy, and ...