Patients who have diabetes have the opportunity to receive diabetes education during their hospital stay, when ordered by their healthcare providers.

Education topics include:

●        What it means to have diabetes

●        How to avoid potential complications

●        Current treatment recommendations from the American Diabetes Association

●        Insulin administration

●        Glucose meter instruction

●        Sharps disposal

●        How management of diabetes may change with illness

●        Importance of consistent eating patterns

●        Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia and their treatment

●        Importance of physical activity

●        Foot care

Resources for home include:

●        Glucose meter and starter supplies

●        Insulin pen needle starter kit

●        Insulin supplies case kit with DVD

●        Insulin syringe starter kit

The earlier in a patient’s stay a request from the provider is made, the more timely education will be. Early education is ideal to allow the patient time to process the education and it allows them time to think of any questions while they are still here. Education sessions take up to an hour, depending on the patient’s learning needs.  If education is not ordered until the time of discharge the patient might not be able to be seen before they leave. When this happens, a telephone call will be placed to the patient’s home as soon as possible to discuss educational needs.

Complications of diabetes and diabetes-related hospitalizations may be reduced when individuals are equipped with the knowledge of how to manage this chronic condition.

For further information please contact the Inpatient Diabetes Education Coordinator at (304) 285-6974.