Poole nurse up for accolade for diabetes training programme

A Poole Hospital nurse has been recognised for her care for people with diabetes.

Ruth Miller has been selected from 920 entries as a finalist in the Workforce Initiative category of the RCN Nursing Awards 2023.

She will find out if she has won in a ceremony on Friday 10 November at Liverpool Cathedral. The overall RCN Nurse of the Year 2023, selected from all the category winners, will also be announced at the event.

Ruth developed the Diabetes 10 Point Training programme in collaboration with Diabetes UK, and has overseen its evolution and extension across health and social care across England.

The programme was initially implemented in hospitals, through in-person, wardbased training and train the trainer work. From 2020, delivery switched to virtual platforms. The programmes are now online, free and RCN-accredited, taking 90 minutes to complete.

She said: “A workforce that understands diabetes, whether in acute hospitals or in the community, is fundamental to the delivery of safe care of people with the condition. As the prevalence of diabetes rises it is imperative staff in health and social care settings possess role-relevant knowledge.”

Health benefits of walking

According to the NHS website, a brisk walk can help you to build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier.

Walking suits people of all ages and fitness who want to become more physically active and is often performed at a moderate-low intensity, that does not exert excess strain on joints which are susceptible to injury. It can also help with weight loss, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall feelings of wellbeing. Heading out with a friend can make your walk part of your social life too. Try these steps to get started.

Warm up – light stretching exercises, such as leg swings, arm circles, and head rotations, plus an initial brisk walk for a couple of minutes to gradually increase your heart rate are ideal.

Set a goal – for beginners, start with a 20- to 30-minute walk at a moderate pace, increasing the duration or intensity as you feel able.

Choose a route – knowing where you plan to go will help you stay focused, even if you only plan to walk a few minutes to begin with.

Choosing a route with pleasant surroundings will help make your walk enjoyable.

Record your activity – with a smart watch or phone, you can track your distance, time, pace, and calories burned. Or simply keep a note of your activities so you can see your progress.

Hydrate – carry a water bottle and take sips frequently. Also, eating balanced meals including carbohydrate, some protein, and minimal fat will keep you fuelled for your walk.

Ferndown Fitness – save £100 on membership this month

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