Promoting continuing education in diabetes management

Diabetes knowledge among hospital nurses is suboptimal. Studies that measured basic diabetes knowledge among nurses in a variety of clinical settings have consistently reported poor understanding of hemoglobin A1C, medication usage and side effects, and self-care diabetes management. Although diabetes is a common diagnosis among hospitalized patients, many nurses report they have never attended an update on diabetes management. To promote advances in glycemic control within the hospital setting, the nursing staff must be better educated in the theoretical framework and clinical practice guidelines for diabetes management. The methods used to promote continuing education in diabetes among staff nurses need to be cost-effective as well as flexible to accommodate work shifts and learning needs. Because many hospitals are facing staff shortages and increased patient acuity, staff development needs may not be a high priority. To be successful, updating diabetes knowledge must be a collaborative effort involving clinical care, research, and education. Mentoring and peer support also are useful methods for improving glycemia in the hospital setting.