Diabetes is highly prevalent in older adults and in skilled nursing facilities. Poorly managed glycemic control increases the risk for hypoglycemia, the burden of care for residents, and the risk for facility regulatory non-compliance. Below are 4 F-Tags commonly associated with poor diabetic control.
1. F-686 Treatment Services to Prevent/Heal Pressure Ulcers
Diabetic patients are at a greater risk for developing pressure ulcers. In addition, uncontrolled hyperglycemia can delay wound healing.
2. F-690 Bowel/Bladder Incontinence
Uncontrolled hyperglycemia in diabetic patients may cause or exacerbate polyuria.
3. F-689 Free of Accident Hazards
Poorly managed glycemic control can cause hypoglycemia and increase the risk of falls. In addition, residents that experience polyuria, especially nocturia, may be at a greater risk of falling.
4. F-757 Unnecessary Medications
Sliding scale sole therapy for older adults is not appropriate for any care setting and can be considered an unnecessary medication.
Appropriate diabetic therapy can improve resident care and quality life. Doctors, pharmacists and nurses should work together to ensure that all diabetic patients receive the clinical monitoring necessary to achieve optimal medication therapy.