CHS Pharmacy News
November 2025
Upcoming Holiday Hours
Thanksgiving Day: Closed *
Christmas Eve: 9 AM – 3 PM
Christmas Day: Closed *
New Year’s Eve: Normal Business Hours
New Year’s Day: Closed *
Normal business hours are 9 AM – 5:30 PM M-F, and 9 AM – 3PM Saturday and Closed on Sunday
*Emergency services available 24/7/365
Supporting Residents with Diabetes: A Nursing Perspective*
Diabetes management in long-term care settings presents unique challenges, especially among aging populations with complex health needs. As f rontline caregivers, nursing staf f play a vital role in ensuring residents with diabetes receive consistent, compassionate, and evidence-based care.
The American Diabetes Association® emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to diabetes care, encouraging collaboration among nurses, physicians, dietitians, and diabetes educators. Key priorities include:
- Monitoring blood glucose levels and recognizing signs of hypo- or hyperglycemia.
- Supporting medication adherence, including insulin administration and oral therapies.
- Promoting healthy nutrition and physical activity tailored to each resident’s abilities.
- Preventing complications such as foot ulcers, vision loss, and cardiovascular issues.
- Utilizing technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), to improve outcomes and reduce burden.
Nurses are encouraged to participate in diabetes education programs and webinars to stay current with best practices. The ADA offers professional development opportunities, including training on CGM use in long-term care and strategies for improving diabetes outcomes through personcentered care.
Recognizing and Responding to Hypoglycemia in Long-Term Care**
Hypoglycemia—low blood glucose—is a common and potentially dangerous condition among residents with diabetes, especially those on insulin or certain oral medications. In long-term care settings, nursing staf are of ten the first to notice symptoms and initiate treatment, making your role critical in preventing complications.
Key Points for Nursing Staff :
- Know the thresholds: Blood glucose <70 mg/dL is considered low; <54 mg/dL is severe.
- Watch for symptoms: Shakiness, sweating, confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.
- Use the 15-15 Rule: Administer 15g of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., juice, glucose tablets), then recheck glucose in 15 minutes. Repeat if needed.
- Be prepared for emergencies: Severe hypoglycemia may require glucagon. Ready-to use formulations (nasal or auto-injectors) are preferred and can be administered by non-clinical staff.
- Educate and empower: Ensure all staf f know where glucagon is stored and how to use it. When in doubt, call 911.
Regular monitoring, clear protocols, and ongoing staff education are essential to keeping residents safe.
- * diabetes.org
- ** diabetes.org