259 Improving inpatient cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD) care: The patients’ perspective

Abstract

Objectives In CFRD, tight glycaemic control is important, particularly when patients are undergoing IV antibiotic therapy. To facilitate this, we have developed a dedicated weekly ward round led by a CFRD Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) and CF dietitian, providing treatment advice tailored to patients' blood glucose levels and dietary intake. We wished to assess our patients' views of this new service. Methods Using a structured questionnaire, we surveyed 30 patients with CFRD (14 male) in the first 6 months since the service started. Results Twenty eight patients(97%) rated the new service as or in helping them understand and manage their CFRD, and 26 (90%) felt able to ask questions freely. Five patients (16%) felt that changes to treatment could have been explained more clearly, but the remainder were satisfied. Other comments included excellent chance to understand how blood sugars are affected when taking other medication and also dietary advice on eliminating excess sugar from my diet, staff approachable & supportive, hugely beneficial to see CF nurse/dietitian/diabetic nurse all together as matters can be discussed in more detail, and staff approachable & supportive. Suggested improvements included allocating time slots in advance so patients could prepare blood sugar charts to help with changes. Conclusion Our new and innovative MDT approach to the inpatient management of CFRD is well liked by patients, essential when patient involvement is necessary to ensure satisfactory glycaemic control and good outcomes. We recommend this service to other adult CF units, where CFRD is an increasingly common complication of this complex disease.