Diabetic Program
As part of CRL’s commitment to providing the best in healthcare for our residents, we have created a new Diabetic Care Program which sets the standard of care based on the most innovative medical programs and services available from recommendations of the American Diabetes Association. Based on a total wellness approach, the program includes preventative and on-going treatment to enrich the lives of our residents.
CRL’s Diabetes Program was developed by our regional director of clinical services, Penny Pagel, RN, who has more than 13 years of experience as an RN in acute and long-term care. Penny and her team of RN’s, LPN’s and caregivers complete the team to ensure that we can help you provide the optimal clinical outcomes for our residents.
CRL’s Diabetes Program consists of seven components including:
• Dietary needs: Proper nutrition that balances the right fruits, vegetables and proteins. Diabetic snacks will ensure stabilization of blood sugars.
• Exercise: Programs developed for 5-7 days per week including such things as yoga classes.
• Lab Monitoring: Including HbA1C’s, blood sugars, cholesterol and kidney function testing.
• RN Monitoring: Supervision and updating of primary healthcare provider on lab results, blood sugars and other diabetic related concerns as well as keeping diabetic files of all monitoring components of the program.
• Eye Care: Annual dilated eye exams (if primary care provider wishes) and administration of eye drops/treatments as ordered.
• General Foot Care: Washing, drying and applying lotion on the feet daily including checking for blisters, reddened areas, increased edema and any cuts or abrasions and filing of nails and clipping by licensed nursed.
• Podiatry Services: Make podiatry appointments for any problems including debridement of nails.
We expect to see improved HbA1C’s meeting the American diabetes association goal of 7 or less, as well as stabilization of side effects including hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes. Regular foot care will catch any problems areas quickly so appropriate treatment can begin at the first sign of a problem. Our exercise program is varied and will increase participation over standard chair exercises offered by others.
