Nurse Educators Help Manage Diabetes

---

Type 2 diabetic patients attending a nurse educator have improved metabolic control, by S. Scain and Colleagues. Diab Res Clin Pract 77:339-404, 2007.

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Controlling how the body handles insulin and glucose is key to preventing the complications of type 2 diabetes. But many patients are unable to achieve good control of the disease on their own. Education and support from a nurse who specializes in diabetes care may help patients control their disease.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to study whether education and support from a nurse helps people with diabetes control their glucose and insulin.

Who was studied?

The study included 143 people with type 2 diabetes who were cared for by primary care and endocrinology clinics at a hospital in Brazil. Some of the participants took oral drugs to help manage diabetes, but none took insulin.

How was the study done?

Participants underwent a physical exam and had blood drawn for tests. They also answered a detailed questionnaire.

Participants had the option of receiving nursing care, which is usually three to four 30-minute sessions each year. During these sessions, the nurse reviews information about diabetes and its care, and provides advice for diet and physical activity.

Participants were sorted according to levels of glycated hemoglobin (A1C), a measure of long-term blood glucose control.

What did the researchers find?

Participants who received nursing care were more likely to have A1C levels of 7% or less, the level recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and other medical groups. They were also more likely to have A1C of 7% or less if participants were treated by an endocrinologist rather than a primary care doctor.

What are the limitations of the study?

The study was conducted in Brazil, which may not relate to people in other countries. The nursing service was voluntary, so there could be differences between those who did or did not choose the service that account for the observations. The study was not randomized to account for differences among groups of people.

What are the implications of the study?

Nursing care can play an important part in helping people with type 2 diabetes manage their disease.