Book Reviews
Care of people with diabetes: A manual of nursing practice
By Trisha Dunning
ISBN: 978-1-405170901 2009 560 pages Wiley-Blackwell; 3rd edition
Reviewed by Pauline Hill
University of South Australia, Adelaide SA
As stated by the author, this book is a quick reference source for health professionals caring for people with diabetes. The book covers a wide range of important topics in diabetes care and presents the information in a succinct manner.
The author's experience as a diabetes educator in a large public teaching hospital is evident. The book focuses on the care of people with diabetes in a hospital setting but also provides information for use in the community, home and aged-care environments.
The book is divided into twenty-one chapters with key points listed at the beginning of each section and references for further reading at the conclusion of most chapters. The presentation style reflects that found in many nursing practice manuals but the compact size of the book ensures greater portability and thus ready access as a resource for health professionals.
Information is stated concisely and assumes a basic level understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and patient education principles. Whilst the book is written predominantly for nurses, it would be a useful resource for any health professional involved in the care of people with diabetes, particularly those just commencing diabetes care or located in geographically isolated areas. Important issues such as assessment, blood glucose monitoring and treatment regimes are addressed in detail and clear guidelines are provided. The inclusion of many 'Patient Care Sheets' is useful and would assist those endeavouring to improve their nursing care documentation. The issue of non-judgemental language (ie. 'non-compliance' and 'diabetic') is addressed briefly but needs further explanation if changes are to be achieved among health care professionals.
The use of the term 'patient' throughout most of the book, is explained by the author as reflecting the 'caring relationship that is nursing, in a way that "client" and "customer" do not'. However, the term 'patient' at times detracts from the world-wide emphasis of 'self-care' in diabetes management and education. The appendices on relevant professional associations, reference materials for nurses and publications suitable for individuals with diabetes is particularly useful for those commencing in the field and those setting up their professional library.
Overall, this is a concise, portable, nursing practice manual useful for health professionals involved in diabetes management and education.
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