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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Managing Service Users Living with Diabetes Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides comprehensive and effective support to residents living with diabetes. This policy outlines best practices for diabetes management, including blood glucose monitoring, dietary needs, medication administration, foot care, and emergency response to hypo- and hyperglycaemia. It aligns with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines, and the Diabetes UK Best Practice Standards to ensure residents receive safe, person-centred care. The policy also aims to promote independence, reduce complications, and improve quality of life for residents living with diabetes.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members at {{org_field_name}}, including care workers, nurses, kitchen staff, and external healthcare professionals involved in the care of residents with diabetes. It covers procedures for assessing, monitoring, treating, and preventing diabetes-related complications while ensuring that residents maintain their independence and well-being. This policy also applies to families and advocates, ensuring they are informed, involved, and supported in their loved ones’ diabetes management when necessary.

3. Principles of Diabetes Management

Person-Centred Care and Individualised Plans:

• Each resident with diabetes will have a personalised diabetes care plan, developed in collaboration with the resident, family members, and healthcare professionals.
• Care plans will include specific dietary needs, medication schedules, glucose monitoring frequency, and exercise recommendations, ensuring a holistic approach to diabetes care.
• Residents will be supported in self-management wherever possible, promoting independence and informed decision-making while ensuring safety.
• Regular reviews of diabetes care plans will be conducted to adjust to changing health needs, preferences, and clinical recommendations.

Blood Glucose Monitoring and Medication Administration:

• Blood glucose levels must be regularly monitored as per the resident’s individual care plan and medical guidance.
• Staff responsible for blood glucose monitoring must be trained in safe use of glucometers and continuous glucose monitoring devices (if applicable).
• All insulin administration or oral diabetes medication management must comply with the Medication Management and Administration Policy (CHW21), ensuring adherence to correct dosages, timings, and administration techniques.
• Any significant changes in blood glucose readings must be documented and reported to the relevant healthcare professional, with appropriate action taken.
• Staff must monitor and respond to residents’ reactions to medications, identifying any signs of adverse effects or ineffective treatments.

Dietary Management and Nutritional Support:

• Meals must be nutritionally balanced, with appropriate carbohydrate intake to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Kitchen staff must be trained in diabetes-friendly meal preparation, considering low glycaemic index foods, portion control, and hydration.
• Residents must be supported in making healthy food choices and educated on the impact of diet on blood glucose levels.
• Snacks and meal timings should be managed strategically to prevent sudden blood sugar fluctuations.

Preventing and Managing Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar):

• Signs of hypoglycaemia (shakiness, confusion, sweating, dizziness) must be quickly recognised and treated.
• Fast-acting glucose sources (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) must be readily available in resident areas and care stations.
• A hypoglycaemia emergency protocol will be in place to ensure prompt action and appropriate staff response, including monitoring recovery and preventing recurrence.
• All hypoglycaemic events must be documented and reviewed to assess trends, identify causes, and implement preventive measures.
• Staff must be trained to differentiate mild, moderate, and severe hypoglycaemia and apply appropriate responses accordingly.

Preventing and Managing Hyperglycaemia (High Blood Sugar):

• Signs of hyperglycaemia (increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue) must be monitored and addressed promptly.
• Residents should be encouraged to maintain hydration, adhere to prescribed medication regimens, and follow dietary guidelines.
• Persistent hyperglycaemia must be escalated to a GP or diabetes specialist for further assessment and treatment modifications.
• Regular monitoring of HbA1c levels will be encouraged in collaboration with healthcare professionals to assess long-term glucose control.

Foot Care and Prevention of Diabetes-Related Complications:

• Residents with diabetes are at risk of foot ulcers and infections; therefore, daily foot inspections must be encouraged and facilitated where necessary.
• Regular podiatry referrals must be made for residents who require professional foot care.
• Staff must report any signs of wounds, redness, swelling, or numbness to the appropriate healthcare professional to prevent complications.
• Residents will be educated about proper footwear and foot hygiene to reduce the risk of injuries and infections.

Physical Activity and Lifestyle Support:

• Residents will be encouraged to engage in gentle exercise and physical activities suited to their abilities to promote insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health.
• Movement and mobility plans must be developed to prevent sedentary behaviour, which can contribute to insulin resistance.
• Education sessions may be provided to support residents in understanding the importance of lifestyle choices, including exercise, stress management, and sleep hygiene in diabetes management.
• Staff will work with external professionals, such as physiotherapists, dietitians, and diabetes educators, to enhance resident well-being.

4. Staff Training and Responsibilities

• All staff must complete mandatory diabetes awareness training, including signs of hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia, insulin administration, and emergency protocols.
• Kitchen staff will receive specialised training on diabetic-friendly meals to ensure meal plans align with individual residents’ needs.
• Care workers and nurses will be trained in proper monitoring techniques, medication administration, and emergency response.
• Staff must document all diabetes-related care and report concerns promptly to the Registered Manager or designated healthcare professional.
• Regular staff competency assessments will be conducted to ensure continued adherence to best practice diabetes care.

5. Related Policies

• CHW07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CHW12 – Meeting Nutritional and Hydration Needs Policy
• CHW13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CHW21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy

6. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, CIW updates, or emerging best practices in diabetes care. Regular care audits, feedback from residents, and staff training reviews will be conducted to ensure compliance with CIW and NICE guidelines.

• Diabetes-related incident reports, emergency responses, and care plan adjustments will be reviewed to continuously improve resident care.
• Feedback from residents and families will be considered in policy updates to enhance care quality and ensure person-centred practices.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.