Educating Diabetic and Pre-Diabetic Patients Diabetes is more common than ever. Approximately 1.25 million American children and adults have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes kills more people every day than AIDS and breast cancer together. A person diagnosed at age 50 with type 2 diabetes is more likely to die 6 years earlier than non diabetics. Some pretty alarming statistics for sure.
Pre-diabetic patients People that are what is commonly referred to as pre-diabetic still have a chance to avoid becoming diabetic. An immediate lifestyle change and change in diet can often prevent the actual onset of diabetes. 80 percent of type 2 diabetics are overweight, so the obvious first step to avoid developing diabetes is to maintain an ideal weight. When working with a pre-diabetic patient, there is a strong need for education, they need to understand the severity of the condition and complications. The hope is that the patient will recognize the seriousness of the disease, and make necessary changes before they have a full blown case of diabetes. When educating pre-diabetic patients it is important to convey the dangers associated with diabetes. Even some minor lifestyle changes can prevent further complications. • • • •
If overweight, lose weight by following a healthy diet Be sure to drink plenty of water daily, avoid sugary drinks and too much caffeine. Incorporate exercise in a daily routine, at least 30 minutes per day Ensure meals are balanced with the proper amount of protein and carbs.
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Type 2 Diabetic Patients When a patient is diagnosed with diabetes, type 2, there are likely to be a wide range of emotions. Many patients do not comprehend the serious condition they have been diagnosed with. You can't follow a patient home and force changes on them; however, stressing the importance of following the physician's orders is vital. Newly diagnosed patients will need education and training to manage their condition. In addition to training on insulin injections, encourage the patient to attend a session on diabetic education, most hospitals offer them at little or no charge. Encourage the patient to attend a diabetic support group. In addition to offering support and motivation, the group meetings can offer tips, give advice, share recipes, and have social events to incorporate exercise. It is a good idea to offer reassurance to your patient. Remind them, they can live with this diagnosis;