Welcome back guys! Today, we are going to discuss Diabetes Self-Management Education & Support and the DSMES Process. Studies have shown us that to achieve better patient outcomes, DSMES is necessary. In fact, it is the cornerstone of diabetes management. Gone are the days where providers lead with an authoritative approach in patient care. It is shown that patient buy-in and the empowerment of self management is the most effective way to manage diabetes.

By definition, DSMES is:

The collaborative process through which people with or at risk for diabetes gain the knowledge and skills needed to modify behavior and successfully self-manage the disease and it’s related conditions.

Critical Times to Educate Patients with Diabetes

Over on Instagram, I started a segment called TUESDAY TIPS where I answer one of the questions that I’ve received through email or direct message. One of the most recent questions I answered was '“When is it appropriate to start diabetes education?” Though education can happen at any time and as frequently as the nurse practitioner sees fit, there are four critical times with education needs to happen.

At Diagnosis
Annually
Complicating Factors
Transition

To learn more detail about these four critical times, you can view that TUESDAY TIP video >HERE<.

Components of the DSMES Process

The components of the DSMES Process is an education cycle that takes a provider through the steps needed for effective education. The cycle doesn’t have to necessarily go in order. The nurse practitioner can adjust as needed based on their clinical judgement.

Assessment

Take time to sit down with your patient and interview them. Assess their knowledge of the disease, what are their expectations and specific needs.

Goal Setting

Based on what was learned in the assessment, collaboratively set SMART Goals with the patient. Here’s a great tool to assist you, The Goal Setting Workbook, which is included in the NP Diabetes Starter Pack.