Impact of Diabetes on Patient Safety, Quality of Care, and Costs

Quality, Safety, and Cost Considerations

Diabetes type 2 is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide and poses significant challenges to healthcare systems, individuals, and families. Effective management of diabetes requires a comprehensive approach (NURS FPX 4900 Assessment 2 Quality, Safety, and Cost Considerations) that considers the unique needs and preferences of each patient and addresses the complex interplay between medical, behavioral, and social factors. To achieve this, nurses play a critical role in providing high-quality care that promotes patient safety, enhances health outcomes, and reduces the cost burden associated with managing diabetes (Kong et al., 2022).

In this assessment, I will assess the impact of diabetes type 2 on the quality of care, patient safety, and costs to the system and individual, and propose strategies supported by examples to improve the management of this condition. Additionally, I will examine how state board nursing practice standards and organizational or governmental policies, such as the ANA, NPA, and CDC, can affect the management of diabetes and its impact on healthcare outcomes.

Impact of Diabetes on Patient Safety, Quality of Care, and Costs

Diabetes is a long-term medical condition that requires individuals to make lifestyle modifications and take medication to manage it effectively. Out of the 38 million Americans with diabetes, approximately one in ten individuals is affected. Alarmingly, half of those with the condition are not aware of their diagnosis (Sathish et al., 2023). We will take into consideration the case study of a fifty-nine-year-old male patient, Mr. Andrew, who is suffering from type 2 diabetes. Mr. Andrew’s diabetes condition can have a significant impact on the quality of care, patient safety, and costs to both the healthcare system and the individual.

Quality of Care

Diabetes type 2 is a chronic condition that requires continuous management and monitoring to prevent complications. These complications include cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy (Ortiz-Martínez et al., 2022). Therefore, the quality of care provided to Mr. Andrew must be comprehensive and patient-centered, including regular check-ups, medication management, blood glucose monitoring, and lifestyle modifications. Failure to provide appropriate care can result in a decline in his health and an increase in complications, leading to reduced quality of life.

Patient Safety

Diabetes type 2 can also impact patient safety. For instance, if Mr. Andrew’s blood glucose levels are not appropriately controlled, he may experience hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, both of which can result in serious health complications. In addition, diabetes can increase the risk of infections, such as foot ulcers, which can lead to hospitalization and further complications (Ortiz-Martínez et al., 2022).

Costs to the System and Individual

The management of type 2 diabetes can be costly to both the healthcare system and the individual. For the healthcare system, the cost of treating complications associated with diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease and renal failure, can be significant. Additionally, diabetes-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits can further strain healthcare resources. For the individual, the cost of medications, blood glucose monitoring equipment, and healthcare visits can be significant, especially if they are uninsured or underinsured.