The Scope of Practice of Diabetes Educators in a Metropolitan Area

A survey of 108 members of a local metropolitan AADE chapter was conducted to assess (1) current roles and responsibilities of diabetes educators with respect to medical management and patient education, and (2) the use of behavioral strategy techniques among diabetes educators. Nurses and dietitians specializing in diabetes care performed a range of responsibilities. Approximately 75% of the nurses performed standard patient education roles and 20% performed the majority of roles traditionally considered to be in the medical domain, including insulin adjustment. More than half of the respondents had not received formal training in the use of behavioral strategies. Formal training was positively associated with greater use of behavioral techniques. Training for diabetes educators should include behavioral intervention strategies. Nurses specializing in diabetes care may also need training regarding physical assessment for chronic complications, and knowledge regarding adjustment of insulin and oral hypoglycemic medications.