RESUMO
OBJECTIVES: To determine the impact of a diabetes nurse educator (DNE) on glycemic control in a multidisciplinary diabetes foot (MDF) clinic. METHODS: A prospective cohort trial to measure the impact of a DNE on glycemic control was conducted in an MDF clinic. Change in glycated hemoglobin (A1C) levels over time was measured against the percentage of patient visits (PPVs) accompanied by a glucose meter and/or diary. RESULTS: Increasing PPVs were significantly associated with decline in A1C levels in females. Every 10% increase in PPVs resulted in a 0.18% decrease in A1C levels (p<0.0001). To achieve a clinically important decrease of 1% in A1C levels, a 56% increase in PPVs was required. Increased A1C levels were significantly associated with higher baseline A1C levels (p<0.001) and increased hospital days for foot complications (p<0.0052). CONCLUSIONS: Regular, face-to-face contact with a DNE in an MDF clinic has a positive impact on glycemic control in females.
