Development of a DiaBEATes Nurse Champion Program

Abstract

PurposeThis article shares an innovative educational practice for increasing the knowledge base of direct-care registered nurses related to diabetes management. Outcome data include quantitative analysis of test scores, qualitative responses of changes in practice, and participation in monthly diabetes resource meetings.ConclusionDiabetes educators will find the DiaBEATes Nurse Champion program useful for structuring educational programs within various practice settings. The case studies are useful tools for evaluating specific application of diabetes knowledge.BackgroundThe nearly 24 million people with diabetes strain the health care system in terms of resources and health care dollars. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) a hospital stay for a patient with diabetes costs almost 3 times the stay of a patient without diabetes.1 The higher costs associated with caring for a patient with diabetes is partly attributed to inadequate knowledge regarding current diabetes treatment options and the failure of some health care workers to accept professional responsibility for diabetes management. 2,3