What Are the Best Evidence-Based Nursing Management Techniques for Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?

...

The nurses role for the prevention of diabetes is extremely important as they assess each patient for risk factors such as advanced maternal age, obesity, ethnicity,family history of T2D, history of macrosomic baby, and a previous history of GDM upon admission. This will ensure that each patient is receiving client centered care in order to reduce the risk for development of GDM. Upon many of the trials, the nurse has the responsibility of educating the client on the positive effects of combining a low glycemic Index diet and exercising. Maternity patients have the most interaction with their nurses during pregnancy so it is very important that the nurse takes the time to answer questions and express the importance of regular visits to screen the patient for signs and symptoms of GDM, allowing them to lead their patients in the right direction. Monitoring physical changes and changes in labs and vital signs are very important for the nurse to recognize and identify. Signs and symptoms of diabetes in patients are extremely important to report, to ensure that any abnormalities are addressed by other health care personnel, and further measures can be taken appropriately.

In conclusion, the nurse does not have much authority in implementing interventions, but is responsible for ensuring that the patient is educated and is following therapies/interventions provided by appropriate health care professionals. Together they create a multidisciplinary team which lead to significantly fewer miscarriages and significantly fewer admissions to specialist care for these babies. The nurse is relied on to promote “careful monitoring and ongoing education” in order to assist in the provision of a positive,balanced management plan, which is important in achieving successful perinatal outcomes and maintaining the mother’s health antepartum and post-partum.

References

Arya, R., Mills, L., & Palmer, C. (2015). Reducing diabetes-related complications in pregnancy. Journal of Midwifery, 23(12), 848-853.

Carroll, D. G., & Kelley, K. W. (2014). Review of metformin and glyburide in the management of gestational diabetes. Pharmacy Practice (18863655 ) , 12(4), 1-7.

Heartling, L., Dryden, D. M., Gurthrie, A., Muise, M., Vandermeer, B., & Donovan, L. (2014). Diagnostic thresholds for gestational diabetes and their impact on pregnancy outcomes: A Systematic Review. Diabetic Medicine, 31(3), 319-331.

Oostdam, N., van Poppel, M. N., Wouters, M. G., & van Mechelen, W. (2011). Intervensions for Preventing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta- Analysis. Journal of Woman’s Health, 20(10), 152-1563.

...