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Nancy Klobassa, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.
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Nancy Klobassa, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.
Nancy Klobassa and Peggy Moreland
Nancy Klobassa, R.N., B.S.N, C.D.E
Nancy Klobassa is a registered nurse who has worked in diabetes education for 14 years. She is a certified diabetes educator (C.D.E.) and is currently in graduate school working on a Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) and Health Care Education.Nancy works with adults who have type 1, type 2 and other forms of diabetes. Nancy is coordinator of the Diabetes Unit's intensive insulin therapy program within the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition & Metabolism at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Nancy has worked extensively with insulin pump therapy and continuous interstitial glucose sensing.
Peggy Moreland, R.N., M.S.N.
Peggy Moreland is a diabetes educator in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition & Metabolism at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.Peggy graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing and Health Care Education from the University of Phoenix and is a member of the American Association of Diabetes Educators and the American Diabetes Association. Peggy enjoys working with patients to set and achieve diabetes self-management goals.
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Sept. 19, 2009
Blog: How to talk with your doctor about diabetes
By Nancy Klobassa, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.
I've been in the nursing field for many moons and it's taken me a long time to figure out how to talk with my physician counterparts.
Talking to a physician is a learned skill and I need to use a specific type of communication technique to get the results needed to function in my role at work and get the best results for my patients.
Of course, everyone has their own personality and communication style. Doctors are busy individuals and don't have time for lengthy stories with insignificant details. They just want the facts jack! Doctors are highly intelligent and want accurate information and not assumptions. Doctors are generally type "A" individuals and systematic thinkers. Doctors approach problems using scientific methods. Having said that, here are some suggestions on how to talk with your doctor.
How to talk to your doctor:
- Be prepared, bring any medications you're taking or a list of current medications you take to the appointment. Include herbal remedies and over the counter medications.
- Discuss any allergies or reactions you've had to your medications.
- Bring your blood glucose record book or meter/pump downloads with you (statistics/data to doctors is like a doggie treat for man's best friend, they just love them).
- Write down a list of questions before the visit.
- Don't be afraid to speak up and ask questions (if you don't understand something let the provider know). He/she may be able to draw you a picture. Literally.
- Give information; don't wait to be asked (this will save you time and the physician time).
- Have an up-to-date health history and necessary labs, X-rays and bring them with you.
- Don't be embarrassed to give personal information; the provider is there to help you.
- Bring a family member or buddy with you. This person can help you remember or understand what the provider tells you. They may also help you communicate your needs to the provider.
- Take notes.
Other points to note:
- Did your doctor or provider give you written instructions?
- Did your doctor wash his/her hands before and after examining you?
- Did you get any brochures or educational material, online or otherwise?
- Did your doctor do a foot exam?
- Did you get a contact number for questions or concerns?
- Follow up appointment?
Comments?
Again, have a great week!
Nancy
2 comments posted