Outcomes of a Diabetes Education Program for Registered Nurses Caring for Individuals With Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Nurses from various settings lack sufficient knowledge about diabetes and diabetes management. Better understanding of evidence-based practices by nurses who are involved in caring for hospitalized individuals with diabetes can positively influence care outcomes. Method: A pretest–posttest design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of a diabetes education program for RNs working in Jordanian hospitals. One hundred twenty-nine RNs voluntarily participated. A 1-day education program was developed and delivered to the participating nurses. Knowledge regarding diabetes was tested before and after the education program. Results: A significant difference was noted in the modified diabetes basic knowledge mean test scores before and after implementation of the education program ( t [128] = 17.95, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The diabetes education program had a positive effect on nurses’ knowledge. This finding has implications for developing diabetes education content within nursing curricula, as well as continuing education courses for practicing nurses. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2015;46(3):129–133.