Monday, August 31, 2009

Diabetics

It seems that at least once a day a provider calls about caring for diabetic resident in their assisted living community. I have found however that many providers will not accept a sliding scale diabetic. I am not sure why this occurs. If caregivers are trained properly then there is no reason to not accept this level of care. Therefore if training can not be a reason then it can only be fear . . .fear of the unknown. For example what happens if the residents' insulin spikes high what should the caregiver do? Again if the caregiver is properly trained they will know to check the blood sugar and draw up the insulin amount that the physician ordered. Remember that these same residents lived at home for years with their untrained loved ones drawing up their insulin, in assisted living caregivers are trained professionals.
Arizona ALFA offers diabetic training monthly to educated staff and family members on proper technique.

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