Empowering Staff Nurses as Primary Educators to Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Diabetes Management
• Patient Education

Background:

• Effective patient and family education is crucial for managing type 1 diabetes.
• Children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes often present with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), requiring hospitalization and intensive education.
• Limited time during hospitalization challenges comprehensive diabetes education and support for families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To expand the role of bedside nurses as primary diabetes educators for pediatric patients.
• To improve the quality and consistency of diabetes education provided during hospitalization.

Main Methods:

• Implemented an eight-hour diabetes workshop for all nurses.
• Developed and educated nurses on a multidisciplinary diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) protocol.
• Created a diabetes resource cart and a structured, outcome-oriented patient education plan.
• Utilized a Pediatric SharePoint site for accessible education materials and protocols.

Main Results:

• Increased nursing confidence and expertise in diabetes care.
• Demonstrated improved competencies among nursing staff.
• Received positive anecdotal feedback from nurses and patient caregivers regarding the educational initiative.

Conclusions:

• Empowering bedside nurses as primary educators enhances diabetes care for pediatric patients and their families.
• Structured education plans and accessible resources improve nursing confidence and patient outcomes.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration and targeted training are key to successful implementation.