Journals Watch 2003

This section features a regularly updated list of recently published articles relevant to nurse prescribing.

Abstracts of the papers are included and users are encouraged to submit their views about published papers through the feedback section.

Please note: In this section of the website we aim to cover articles on areas where nurses do prescribe. However, not all the treatments or appliances mentioned are prescribable by nurses. For that reason, nurses should check the up-to-date versions of the Nurse Prescribers’ Formulary for District Nurses and Health Visitors (NPF) and the Nurse Prescribers’ Extended Formulary (NPEF) and Drug tariff if they are in any doubt. Alternatively contact your Regional Nurse Prescribing Lead for clarification.

2002 Diabetes
 

Diabetes
Click on the article title below to read the summaries. 

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Burden M. Diabetes: signs, symptoms and making a diagnosis. Nursing Times 2003; 99(1): 30-32
Keywords: Diabetes, signs and symptoms, glycaemic control

The two types of diabetes – Type 1 (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) and Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent diabetes) are explained, their epidemiology examined, and their diagnosis discussed in this article. Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in children; type 2 is much more common in middle-aged and elderly populations and can be more difficult to diagnose. Glycaemic control mechanisms are discussed and the signs and symptoms of diabetes explained in terms of insulin deficiency.

Website: Nursing Times
 

Hicks D. Insulin delivery devices. Professional Nurse 2003; 18(6): 315-316

This article examines the range of insulin treatment regimens and the delivery devices available to patients, highlighting the importance of involving the patient in these choices. This can be important in promoting concordance with treatment.
 

Burden M. Diabetes: treatment and complications – the nurse’s role. Nursing Times 2003; 99(2): 30-32.
Keywords: Diabetes; treatment; diabetic complications; diabetic screening.

This article examines the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the acute and long-term complications of the condition. Much of diabetes care aims to prevent or treat these complications and the role of the nurse in the care of people with diabetes is examined. The importance of patient self-care and the role of education in this is highlighted.

Website: Nursing Times
 

Nursing Times 2003; 99(15): 47-59

This supplement includes articles about the potential of islet transplantation as a cure for diabetes, a review of the National Service Framework for Diabetes, insulin administration devices, obesity and diabetes, managing perioperative fasting in people with type 1 diabetes, the use of training in flexible intensive insulin management to allow dietary freedom to people with type 1 diabetes, and managing care in the community for people with type 2 diabetes.

Website: Nursing Times