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Telephone communications between diabetes clients and nurse educators
N Leggett-Frazier1, M S Swanson2, P A Vincent3
1The Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, East Carolina University School of Medicine, Greenville, North Carolina (Ms Leggett-Frazier)
The Diabetes Educator
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Diabetes nurse educators (DNEs) frequently use phone calls to discuss vital self-management topics like blood glucose monitoring and diet with their patients. DNE experience and certification impact these telephone discussions, highlighting a need for clear communication guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Diabetes Education
- Telehealth in Healthcare
- Patient Communication
Background:
- Telephone communication is increasingly utilized in healthcare settings.
- Effective patient education is crucial for diabetes self-management.
- The role of telephone support in diabetes care requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the utilization of telephone communications between diabetes nurse educators (DNEs) and patients with diabetes.
- To examine the perspectives of DNEs regarding telephone use in diabetes care.
- To identify factors influencing the topics discussed during telephone consultations.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was developed and distributed to DNEs across the United States.
- A systematic sample of 465 DNEs was drawn from the American Association of Diabetes Educators membership directory.
- Data were collected from 247 returned questionnaires, yielding a 55% response rate.
Main Results:
- 91% of DNEs reported using the telephone for client communication, averaging 15 calls weekly.
- Over 90% of DNEs frequently discussed home blood glucose monitoring, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, insulin use, and diet.
- DNE experience and certification were significant factors influencing the topics discussed via telephone.
Conclusions:
- Telephone communication is a prevalent tool in diabetes education.
- Specific topics are consistently addressed during telephone consultations.
- Further research is needed to establish guidelines for effective telephone-based diabetes care and education.