Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Robert McWhirt

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a growing healthcare problem in the United States. Diabetes affects 1.4 million Americans yearly, impacting the lives of individuals of all ages. One of the most challenging aspects about diabetes is that many individuals are not aware of the impact of the disease on multiple organs until the progression of the disease has reached latter stages. Prevention and early detection of diabetes is a key component of lifesaving interventions including proper nutrition counseling, exercise regimens, management, and patient compliance with a treatment plan. The purpose of this doctoral project was to create a standardized diabetes management protocol for patients in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. Sources of evidence were obtained from the most current literature, including that published by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Evidence shows that an interdisciplinary teams approach to diabetes management in the rehabilitation facility contributes to successful patient outcomes. The logic model served as as a framework for program design and was used as a visual representation for all aspects of the program. The quality improvement process was implemented using an interdisciplinary team approach, with each member of the rehabilitation team playing a special part in meeting the educational needs of the diabetic patient and family. Every diabetic patient requires individualized and specific instruction; therefore, staff members must work together in order to evaluate program effectiveness. This project will effect social change by establishing a protocol that equips patients with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage their diabetes when discharged into the community.

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