According to the World Health Organization, 171 million people are suffering from diabetes as of 2006. By the year 2030, this number is expected to double. Diabetes has been a growing health concern over the past decades and is characterized by an inability to manage blood sugar levels effectively. Successful treatment requires a significant amount of education in diet, medications, insulin administration, and blood glucose monitoring. Nurses who have completed a campus or online BSN program are increasingly filling this growing need in health care.
What is a Diabetes Nurse Educator?
A graduate of a campus or online BSN program who chooses to work as a diabetes nurse educator teaches patients with diabetes about medical and lifestyle factors that are essential to the proper management of the condition. In hospital settings, a diabetes nurse educator visits newly diagnosed diabetic patients to demonstrate how to operate a glucometer for measuring blood glucose levels. He or she may also teach patients how to administer insulin shots and take medications at the appropriate time in relation to meals. Diabetes nurse educators who have attended a campus or online BSN program often work in outpatient settings as well. From outpatient clinics, a diabetes nurse educator monitors patients’ long-term progress and assists with physician-prescribed medication and insulin adjustments.
Required Education to Work as a Diabetes Nurse Educator
Registered nurses may legally practice in the United States with a hospital diploma, associate degree, or bachelor degree in nursing. However, employers more often prefer to hire campus or online BSN program graduates especially for specialized areas in the field of nursing. Earning a bachelor of science in nursing equips nurses with the communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills that are essential in today’s health care environment.
Registered nurses may also acquire official certification as a Certified Diabetes Educator. Requirements for certification include being licensed as a registered nurse, two years of professional diabetes practice, 1000 hours of diabetes self-management training experience, and current employment as a diabetes educator. Candidates must also pass a written examination. For more information on becoming a diabetes educator, students may visit the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators website.
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Tags: nurse, registered nurse
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