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BASIC DESCRIPTION
The diabetes educator works with diabetic patients to teach them about diabetes and how to live a healthy life with this very common health problem. Most diabetic educators work in clinics or physician offices and manage the care of clients with this disease. The diabetic nurse educator establishes long-term commitments and knows patients very well. Responsibilities include instruction on foot and skin care, and appropriate diet; monitoring of blood glucose; and administration of insulin. The diabetic educator must have knowledge of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and must keep up with the newest techniques and interventions available.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The care of diabetic patients is very complex and requires a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and special certification as a diabetic educator. Increasingly, Master of Science in Nursing preparation is required. Certification is available from the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators.
CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED
■ Extensive expertise and knowledge about the care of diabetic patients, patient education skills, and interpersonal skills
RELATED WEB SITEs AND NURSING ORGANIZATIONS
■ American Association of Diabetes Educators (www.aadenet.org)
■ National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (www.ncbde.org)