Development of an Educational Program on Prevention of Hypoglycemic Events Among Elderly Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this project was to develop an evidence-based educational program to reduce hypoglycemic events in elderly veterans with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are enrolled in the Veterans Healthcare Administration system. Updated guidelines have emphasized the importance of hypoglycemia prevention, and they recommend individualized and less stringent glycemic control. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted, which led to the development of evidence-based content for an educational program. Several categories and subcategories of content were identified and subsequently evaluated by a panel of experts in the field of diabetes management. Results Experts were unanimous on the importance and relevance of the categories and provided insight into the priority of subcategories of content. Conclusions Developing an evidence-based educational program for health care providers on prevention of hypoglycemia has important clinical implications. Diabetes educators can use the topical outline for patient and family teaching. This project may also serve as an example for diabetes educators on developing evidence-based educational programs.