Diabetes

This resource is an introduction to diabetes for those people who are supporting individuals living with this condition.  It would be particularly useful for carers working in health and social care, or for someone supporting a member of their own family.

The first section explains what diabetes is and the role of the pancreas in producing insulin.  There is a clear outline of the different types of diabetes and how each will affect the body.  Risk factors for developing type 2 are discussed, together with ways to reduce that risk.

 
There is an explanation of some of the long-term health consequences of developing type 2 diabetes, including damage to eyes, kidney disease, heart and blood vessel damage, and neuropathy.

Treatment and management options are examined including nutritional self-help and tests to monitor the disease.  There is an explanation of hypoglycaemia, the symptoms generally accompanying it and what to do if someone is having an attack - hypo boxes are also discussed. There are several risk factors associated with this condition that are also listed.

There is a similar section about hyperglycaemia, its symptoms and causes.

The resource looks at how to support older people who have diabetes and ways to help them manage the condition, for example infection prevention, foot care, mouth care and continence support.  This section also looks in some detail at guidelines for a healthy diet and regular exercise to suit each individual.

This resource can be used in different ways, for example: it is a digital workbook for learners as it provides questions and activities to test knowledge, or it can be used as a short course by anyone providing hands-on care.

A special feature of this resource is that it gives access to interactive questionnaires that can be completed on phone, tablet or personal computer.  The learner can then save or print their responses as required.  There are also activities provided via the link.

Note for trainers:
Each learner could have this resource on their digital device and use the interactive questionnaires to send their responses to you for approval.  Work can also be printed to form part of a portfolio of work if that is appropriate.   This could be particularly useful for domiciliary care workers.

This is part of the Care Essentials series.

Dettagli