Promoting Diabetes Self-Managment Eduaction and Training in Out-patient Clinics

Abstract Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a long term metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and relative lack of insulin. T2DM is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure, lower-limb amputation, and other complications that are costly to patients and the U.S. health care system. Lack of knowledge and underdeveloped skills for self-management of diabetes continues to be the biggest problem for patients with T2DM. Using a team approach and Rosswurm and Larrabee\u27s (1999) conceptual model as a framework, the purpose of this doctorate of nursing practice quality improvement project was to develop an evidence-based initiative for diabetic self-management that included a practice guideline/protocol for patients, and an educational curriculum plan for staff members including a pretest/posttest. Two nurse practitioners who are specialists in diabetes served as content experts to evaluate the educational curriculum plan. A dichotomous 5-item evaluation revealed unanimous agreement that the objectives of the curriculum were met. The content experts validated each 15 pretest/posttest items using a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (not relevant) to 4 (very relevant). The content validation index was equal to 1.00 showing each of the test items were very relevant. This project will promote positive social change by facilitating staff commitment to evidence-based practice which will impact the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of patients, families, and communities