How to Make the Most of Diabetes Education

Every year, over 1 million people in the United States learn they are diabetic. The vast majority of these people will be diagnosed with non-insulin resistant, or Type 2, diabetes. Newly diagnosed diabetics are inundated with information, advice and anecdotes. Completing a diabetes education course can help people to sort out the most useful information. With a little preparation, the course can be a key component to successful diabetes management.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Food journal or diary
• Blank notebook for recording questions or concerns
• Blood glucose monitor and related supplies

1. Visit your health care provider to get diagnosed with diabetes and a recommendation for a diabetes education program.
2. Follow your doctor's orders. Begin monitoring your blood sugar and taking medications as directed. Record glucose readings in the food diary. Use the notebook to jot down any side effects, questions and/or concerns.
3. Make an appointment for diabetes education. Allow one or two weeks from the beginning of treatment to the appointment.
4. Begin logging your food and beverage consumption, medications, exercise and blood glucose measurements in your food diary. Be sure to include exact times and amounts, for example: 4 ounces grilled chicken or 10 minutes of walking at 7:00 pm.
5. Attend the appointment. Arrive a few minutes early and be prepared to complete paperwork. Bring the food journal with blood sugar levels recorded, a complete list of medications, including doses and frequencies, and the notebook
6. Take frequent notes during the appointment and jot down questions as they come to mind. To stay on track, avoid interrupting the educator.
7. Ask questions when the educator gives you the opportunity and before ending the session. Schedule all subsequent education appointments before leaving.
8. Implement the diabetes management plan. Some changes may be easier to make gradually, one step at a time. Log your progress in your food diary.
9. Continue to record questions for future diabetes education visits. When the course is over, be sure to get a telephone number you can call if you have additional questions or concerns.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that no question is a stupid question. Don’t be afraid to ask about anything you are unclear on.
• Be honest with your educator. Your diabetes management plan will only be successful if you are upfront about the lifestyle changes you are willing to make and commit to making them.
• Illness can affect blood sugar levels. Ask your doctor and diabetes educator to help you develop a plan to maintain your blood sugar when you get sick.