Abstract: TH-PO294
Evaluation of Diabetes-Related Knowledge Among African American Dialysis Patients
Session Information
- Dialysis: Cost, Socioeconomics, Quality of Life
October 25, 2018 | Location: Exhibit Hall, San Diego Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Dialysis
- 701 Dialysis: Hemodialysis and Frequent Dialysis
Authors
- Muoneke, Mary O., Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- Cobb, Jason, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- Bailey, James L., Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- Lea, Janice P., Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Group or Team Name
- Emory University Hospital
Background
Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in the United States, accounting for nearly half of all cases. Although training patients with diabetes on self-management may help improve their health outcomes, the vast majority of U.S. dialysis clinics do not provide diabetes self-management education. As part of a diabetes education program introduction assessment, we examined baseline diabetes-related knowledge and care practices among patients with diabetes at the Emory dialysis clinic. Our overall aim is to introduce diabetes education in the clinic and subsequently assess the impact on clinical outcomes among dialysis patients with diabetes.
Methods
A questionnaire assessing diabetes knowledge and practices was administered on all ESRD patients with diabetes attending the clinic. Data on endocrinology care, most recent HbA1c results and history of amputations were also obtained. Introduction of regular foot checks during dialysis treatment with appropriate referrals to podiatry has now been introduced as a routine clinical practice in the clinic. Review of a diabetes curriculum and recruitment of a specialist diabetes educator is ongoing.
Results
Of the 155 patients, 87 (56%) have a diagnosis of diabetes. 85 (98%) were African Americans, 50 (58%) are males. The mean age was 63 years. The average HbA1C was 6.5%. Only 20 (25%) of the patients were aware of their most recent HbA1C results. About 12 (16%) had a history of limb amputations. A history of vascular studies was documented in 38 (48%) of the patients. Approximately 65 (82%) and 60 (76%) of the patients practiced self-foot and glucose checks respectively. About half of all patients reported receiving endocrinology care. A total of 17 (20%) patients had abnormal foot examination and were referred for podiatry evaluation
Conclusion
A small proportion of the African American Diabetic ESRD patients were aware of factors that could impact their outcome. Introducing diabetes self-management education at dialysis clinics may help improve patient knowledge and potential clinical outcomes.