Diabetes Education Tailored Towards English Speaking Caribbean Immigrants

Diabetes Education Tailored Towards English Speaking Caribbean Immigrants by Joanna A. Dunk MSN, Florida International University, 2010 BSN, Florida International University, 1997 Project Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice Walden University July 2015 Abstract The prevalence of diabetes is increasing among persons of Caribbean ancestry in the United States, yet there is little research on the differences in the health and nutrition patterns of diabetics from this population. This study created a culturally-sensitive diabetes education program for the staff of an internal medicine practice that treated patients from the English-speaking Caribbean. The project was guided by the healthThe prevalence of diabetes is increasing among persons of Caribbean ancestry in the United States, yet there is little research on the differences in the health and nutrition patterns of diabetics from this population. This study created a culturally-sensitive diabetes education program for the staff of an internal medicine practice that treated patients from the English-speaking Caribbean. The project was guided by the health belief model, as well as Leininger’s theory of transcultural nursing. Methodology of project had a quality improvement focus. The comprehensive curriculum included diabetes medications, physical activity, culturally-tailored medical nutrition therapy, complications, self-care behavior, problem solving, and goals. Tools incorporated into the program included DVD, self-learning power point modules, and staff and patient education materials. The diabetes education program was introduced to 16 members of the internal medicine staff, chosen by the physician. A question and answer session was included, during which medical personnel articulated satisfaction with the program. Also verbalized was their increased understanding of diabetes education, and medical nutrition therapy tailored towards English-speaking Caribbean diabetics. The implication for social change indicates that in order for patients of the target population to receive quality, culturally-specific diabetes education, medical personnel must receive structured culturally-tailored diabetes education. Education translated into evidence-based patient education and practices. Program evaluation can be undertaken by monitoring staff and patient satisfaction, and improved patients’ hemoglobin A1C. Diabetes Education Tailored Towards English Speaking Caribbean Immigrants by Joanna A. Dunk MSN, Florida International University, 2010 BSN, Florida International University, 1997 Project Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice Walden University December 2015 Dedication This DNP project is dedicated first and foremost to My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This project is also dedicated to my parents Arthur and Gerda Dunk, my siblings Andrea, Arthur Jnr, Audley, Gary, Orville, and John, sisters-in law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandparents. Acknowledgments I would like to thank all those who helped to make this project possible Committee Chair: Dr. Cathleen Colleran-Santos, Committee Member: Dr. Debra Wilson, University Reviewer: Dr. Leach, Preceptors: Drs. Richard and Michael McLean. I gratefully acknowledge the support of my parents Arthur and Gerda Dunk, siblings, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews without whom this project would not be possible. Finally, and most importantly I acknowledge the role that faith has played in the completion of this project.