DCW73-Managing Service Users Living with Diabetes Policy
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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 safe, effective, and person-centred care for service users living with diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management, lifestyle adjustments, and coordinated healthcare interventions to prevent complications. This policy ensures compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, national healthcare standards, and best practices in diabetes management.
Our objectives are to:
- Promote independence and self-care for service users living with diabetes.
- Prevent diabetes-related complications through monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle support.
- Provide training for staff to recognise symptoms and manage diabetes effectively.
- Ensure compliance with medication administration and dietary guidelines.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, families, and carers to provide holistic care.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Service users diagnosed with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes.
- Family members, carers, and advocates involved in diabetes care planning.
- All employees, including care workers, managers, and administrative staff.
- The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, ensuring compliance.
- Healthcare professionals, including GPs, diabetes nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists.
3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy aligns with:
- The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring high standards of care.
- The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, promoting person-centred care and well-being.
- The Mental Capacity Act 2005, ensuring service users are supported in making decisions about their diabetes care.
- The Equality Act 2010, ensuring fair and non-discriminatory treatment.
- The Medicines Act 1968, governing safe medication administration.
- NICE Guidelines for Diabetes Management, outlining best practices for diabetes care, medication, and lifestyle interventions.
- Public Health Wales Guidelines on Diabetes Prevention and Management.
4. Understanding Diabetes and Its Impact
Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. It requires lifestyle adjustments, medication, and ongoing monitoring.
4.1 Types of Diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes – An autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin therapy.
- Type 2 Diabetes – A metabolic disorder often managed through diet, exercise, and medication.
- Gestational Diabetes – A temporary form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
4.2 Common Symptoms
- Increased thirst and frequent urination.
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
- Blurred vision and slow-healing wounds.
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet.
How we manage this efficiently:
- All staff receive diabetes awareness training.
- Care workers monitor symptoms and escalate concerns promptly.
- Diabetes care plans are personalised to individual needs.
5. Individualised Diabetes Care Plans
Every service user with diabetes will have a tailored care plan developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
5.1 Contents of a Diabetes Care Plan
Each diabetes care plan must include:
- A summary of the service user’s diabetes type and medical history.
- Blood glucose monitoring schedules and target ranges.
- Dietary requirements and nutritional preferences.
- Medication or insulin administration instructions.
- Physical activity recommendations and lifestyle adaptations.
- Emergency protocols for hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar).
How we manage this efficiently:
- Care plans are reviewed regularly and updated when changes occur.
- A key worker is assigned to ensure consistency in diabetes management.
- Digital care records track health trends and interventions.
6. Blood Glucose Monitoring and Record-Keeping
Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential for preventing complications.
6.1 Safe Blood Glucose Testing
- Service users who self-test should be supported in maintaining a regular schedule.
- Care workers should only conduct blood glucose testing if trained and authorised.
- Glucose meters and test strips must be maintained and disposed of safely.
6.2 Documentation and Monitoring Trends
- Blood glucose readings must be recorded in daily logs.
- Any abnormal readings must be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.
- Trends in blood glucose levels should be reviewed regularly to adjust care plans.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Digital monitoring systems ensure real-time updates for staff.
- Regular review meetings identify potential health concerns early.
7. Nutrition and Meal Planning
Diet plays a crucial role in managing diabetes. {{org_field_name}} ensures service users receive nutritional support by:
- Encouraging balanced meals with low sugar and complex carbohydrates.
- Supporting individuals with meal planning and portion control.
- Adapting meals based on dietary restrictions and cultural preferences.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Meal plans are tailored to individual health goals.
- Care staff are trained to identify foods suitable for diabetics.
8. Medication and Insulin Administration
8.1 Oral Medication Management
- Care workers must follow strict protocols for administering diabetes medication.
- All medication must be documented in the Medication Administration Record (MAR).
- Missed or incorrect doses must be reported immediately.
8.2 Insulin Administration
- Insulin injections should only be administered by trained and authorised staff.
- Needles and syringes must be disposed of in sharps containers.
- Dosages must be confirmed before administration to prevent errors.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Ongoing competency assessments for medication administration.
- A secure and compliant medication management system.
9. Recognising and Managing Diabetic Emergencies
9.1 Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar) Symptoms and Actions
- Shakiness, sweating, dizziness, and confusion.
- Immediate treatment with fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice).
- Escalation to emergency services if the person becomes unconscious.
9.2 Hyperglycaemia (High Blood Sugar) Symptoms and Actions
- Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and nausea.
- Encouraging hydration and checking blood sugar levels.
- Escalation to healthcare providers if levels remain high.
How we manage this efficiently:
- A structured emergency response protocol is in place.
- All staff are trained to respond quickly to diabetic emergencies.
10. Preventing Diabetes-Related Complications
Diabetes can lead to long-term health issues, including nerve damage, foot ulcers, kidney disease, and cardiovascular problems. {{org_field_name}} supports prevention by:
- Encouraging routine check-ups with GPs and diabetes specialists.
- Promoting proper foot care and wound monitoring.
- Encouraging physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Regular care plan reviews to adjust interventions.
- Early detection and referral for specialist care when needed.
11. Staff Training and Competency in Diabetes Care
11.1 Mandatory Training Includes:
- Recognising diabetes symptoms and emergency response.
- Safe medication administration and insulin handling.
- Nutritional guidelines and meal planning for diabetics.
11.2 Competency Assessments
- All staff must demonstrate competency before providing diabetes-related care.
- Annual refresher training ensures best practices are maintained.
How we manage this efficiently:
- A designated diabetes lead supports staff with training and guidance.
12. Related Policies
- Medication Management Policy (DCW21).
- Risk Management and Assessment Policy (DCW18).
- Emergency and First Aid Policy (DCW25).
13. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, business needs, or CIW updates. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring compliance.
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}}
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