Nursing Update on Diabetes Management: Evidence-Based Strategies for Patient-Centered Care (2 CE Hours)

CE course updates nurses on evidence-based diabetes care, guidelines, lifestyle, and treatment.

Nursing Update on Diabetes Management: Evidence-Based Strategies for Patient-Centered Care delivers a practical and motivational review of key concepts in diabetes care. With over 38 million Americans currently diagnosed and many more at risk, nurses are on the frontlines of education, prevention, early identification, and clinical management. This course covers the latest ADA guidelines, current pharmacologic options, critical lifestyle interventions, and practical strategies for patient education across diverse populations. Nurses will leave empowered to promote better outcomes, reduce complications, and advocate for whole-person wellness in diabetes care.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. Describe the current prevalence, types, and public health implications of diabetes in the United States.
2. Differentiate between the pathophysiology of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and apply current ADA diagnostic criteria.
3. Identify first-line and second-line treatment options for type 2 diabetes according to ADA/EASD guidelines.
4. Explain the nurse’s role in delivering effective lifestyle education, including nutrition, exercise, and behavioral support.
5. Manage and prevent acute and chronic complications associated with diabetes.
6. Apply strategies to educate and empower diverse patient populations in self-management practices.
7. Discuss emerging trends in diabetes technology and nursing advocacy.

Author:  NIHE Faculty

CE Hours:  2

Course Created on:  07/08/25   Course Expires on:  07/07/28

Target Audience:  

• Registered Nurses (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN/LVN)

Completion Requirements:

1. Enrollment in the course by the learner
2. Read and learn all course materials
3. Complete the course evaluation
4. Attest and testify learning of the course materials

Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest and Relevant Financial Relationships

Neither National Institute for Healthcare Education nor any authors, planners, content experts, or contributors have any relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Accreditation Statement:  

National Institute for Healthcare Education, the parent company of TopNurseCE.com, is a CA Board of Registered Nursing CE Provider #13886. This course explores de-escalation techniques for violent or aggressive patients—skills every nurse should know to stay safe and protect others. It will take the average learner 2 hours to complete.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for the independent medical judgment of a healthcare provider in considering diagnosis and treatment options for a particular patient’s medical condition. Copyright © 2025: All rights reserved. No part of the materials may be reproduced without the express written consent of TopNurseCE.com Professional Educational Institution. The content of this course is intended to provide general information on the topics covered. This information has been prepared by experts with practical experience in the subject matter. This should not be considered medical, legal or professional advice. TopNurseCE.com recommends that individuals contact a licensed medical, legal or professional provider in their respective state. While TopNurseCE.com uses reasonable efforts to ensure that all content provided in this course is accurate and current at the time of publication, TopNurseCE.com makes no representations as to its applicability to your particular situation. No guarantees are given and reliance on them does not constitute liability. Testimonials are collected from feedback surveys submitted by customers. The model presented is for representation purposes and is not intended for actual patients.

Course Outline – Nursing Update on Diabetes Management

Section I: Introduction and Overview

• Importance of ongoing diabetes education for nurses
• Prevalence, risk, and impact of diabetes
• Purpose and objectives of the course

Section II: Pathophysiology and Types of Diabetes

• Overview of glucose metabolism
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Gestational Diabetes
• Other specific types and risk factors

Section III: Current Standards of Care and Treatment Guidelines

• Overview of national diabetes guidelines (ADA, AACE, CDC)
• Glycemic targets and individualized care plans
• Importance of evidence-based nursing practice
• Role of nurses in multidisciplinary teams

Section IV: Diabetes Complications and Nursing Interventions

• Acute complications: hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, DKA, HHS
• Chronic complications: cardiovascular, neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy
• Nursing assessments and early detection
• Prevention and education strategies

Section V: Nursing Role in Patient Education, Prevention, and Support

• Effective communication strategies
• Motivational interviewing and health coaching
• Preventing complications and empowering patients
• Collaborating with other providers

Section VI: Cultural Considerations and Social Determinants of Health

• Impact of culture, income, education, and access to care
• Strategies to provide culturally competent care
• Reducing health disparities in diabetes outcomes

Section VII: Patient Education and Self-Management Support

• Principles of adult learning
• Tools and strategies for self-management
• Supporting behavioral change and adherence
• Digital health tools and remote support

Section VIII: Pharmacological Advancements and Insulin Therapies

• New insulin formulations and delivery devices
• Use of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors
• Role of nurses in medication education
• Monitoring for side effects and interactions

Section IX: Diagnostic Criteria and Monitoring

• Updated diagnostic criteria for diabetes and prediabetes
• Screening and diagnostic tools (A1C, fasting plasma glucose, OGTT)
• Use and nursing considerations for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
• Importance of early detection and regular monitoring

Section X: Special Populations in Diabetes Care

• Pediatric considerations: growth, development, and school-based care
• Geriatric considerations: comorbidities, polypharmacy, fall risk
• Gestational diabetes: diagnosis, treatment, and postpartum care
• Individualized nursing care planning for diverse age groups

Section XI: Case Studies in Diabetes Management

• Case Study 1: Newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetic with limited resources and health literacy
• Case Study 2: Pediatric patient with Type 1 diabetes presenting in DKA
• Case Study 3: Elderly patient with poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes and multiple comorbidities
• Discussion questions and nursing rationale for each scenario

Section XII: Course Summary and Continuing Professional Growth

• Recap of key concepts from the course
• Emphasis on evidence-based practice and holistic care
• Encouragement for ongoing education and patient advocacy
• Resources for staying current in diabetes care