Diabetic Teaching Plan

Diabetes is a chronic disease for which there is no cure. It is a disease requiring a lifetime commitment to lifestyle changes, enabling those diagnosed to manage and control their disease. To accomplish this, education must be intertwined with medical treatment -- hence the need for diabetic teaching plans.

The Goal of Teaching Plans

Many times, those who are diagnosed with diabetes are not thoroughly educated about the disease. The goal of a diabetic teaching plan is to do just this--educate the diabetic patient about the importance of the choices they make and how it impacts their disease. Because no two patients are the same, an individualized plan is devised and tailored to their specific health needs, enabling them to have the highest quality of life possible.

Complications

There are a variety of complications that can stem from diabetes. Some of these include renal disease, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections. More serious complications include cardiovascular problems, including strokes, and diabetic neuropathy. It is important that diabetic patients are aware of all possible complications and the warning signs that accompany them. Foot problems are another complication. Diabetic teaching plans include how to properly care for feet, how to recognize foot complications, and when to seek medical attention.

Medications

It is necessary for those diagnosed with diabetes to have a comprehensive understanding of all oral medications and insulin they may be prescribed over the course of their treatment. A teaching plan includes a review of both of these, explaining the importance of taking any oral medications exactly as prescribed, as well as an explanation of how to mix the different types of insulin and properly inject them. This section also talks about the signs of high and low blood sugar, and the measures needed to be taken when either one occurs.

Diet

Even if those who are diagnosed with diabetes are prescribed an oral medication or insulin to help manage their blood glucose levels, it is imperative to eat healthy, or these medications are taken in vain. Through diabetic teaching, diabetics learn how to make healthy food choices in order to achieve the greatest blood pressure, glycemic, and cholesterol levels, all of which have an effect on diabetes itself.

Coping

When first diagnosed with diabetes, it is not uncommon for patients to become depressed. However, depression, if not caught and treated soon enough, can only complicate the management of the disease. In this section of diabetic teaching, patients are taught that, although the onset of the disease can often be devastating, there are resources and support groups available to help them.