Enhancing diabetes management while teaching quality improvement methods

J Contin Educ Nurs. 2014 Jan;45(1):14-9; quiz 20-1. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20131223-02. Epub 2013 Dec 23.

Abstract

Six medical units realized that they were having issues with accurate timing of bedtime blood glucose measurement for their patients with diabetes. They decided to investigate the issues by using their current staff nurse committee structure. The clinical nurse specialists and nurse education specialists decided to address the issue by educating and engaging the staff in the define, measure, analyze, improve, control (DMAIC) framework process. They found that two issues needed to be improved, including timing of bedtime blood glucose measurement and snack administration and documentation. Several educational interventions were completed and resulted in improved timing of bedtime glucose measurement and bedtime snack documentation. The nurses understood the DMAIC process, and collaboration and cohesion among the medical units was enhanced.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus / nursing*
  • Disease Management*
  • Humans
  • Nurse Clinicians / education
  • Nurse Clinicians / organization & administration
  • Quality Improvement*
  • Teaching