Patient Perception of Nurse Administered Review of Basic Diabetes Self-management Skills During Hospitalization

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess patients’ perception of the review of basic diabetes self-management skills as administered by nursing staff during hospitalization in our academic medical center to determine if the program should be continued, modified and/or expanded. Methods: This descriptive study included patients 18 years and older with a diagnosis of diabetes admitted for any reason to Banner – University Medical Center Tucson (BUMC-T) - between October- December 2015. A phone interview was conducted within 7 days of the patient’s recorded discharge date to assess each patient’s perception of the review they received during their inpatient stay. The questionnaire collected ratings about helpfulness of the medication instructions, understanding of diabetes, and confidence in hypoglycemia management. Data on the likelihood for an outpatient follow-up appointment were collected too. Results: Of the 96 patients included in this study, 44% (n=42) received the basic diabetes self-management skills review, among them 48% (n=20) reported that the review was very helpful, 43% (n=18) reported being very comfortable with understanding diabetes, and 48% (n=20) reported being very confident with hypoglycemia management. Out of 50% of patients referred for outpatient follow-up for diabetes management, only 38% made an appointment. Conclusions: Most patients that received the basic diabetes self-management skills review feel comfortable with diabetes management and its understanding. Review of basic diabetes self-management skills appeared to be helpful when initiated in a hospital setting; however, measures need to be taken to provide the review to all eligible patients and it needs to be supported by effective planning for outpatient follow-up.