Improving the quality of care of veterans with diabetes. A simulation intervention for psychiatric nurses

The primary objective of this study was to provide and evaluate strategies beneficial in preparing psychiatric nurses to exercise clinical judgment needed for adequate assessment and care of veterans with diabetes. Psychiatric nurses completed a pretest evaluation of their knowledge of care for veterans with diabetes. During the intervention stage, a human patient simulator was used to create an interactive scenario for participants to propose a diagnosis and administer treatment. Clinical judgment attributes were evaluated during the simulation by instructors using a rubric. Participants then completed a posttest evaluation. In addition, data about medical transfer rates for veterans with diabetes were provided 1 month before and 1 month after project implementation. All participants (N=20) demonstrated an increase on posttest scores. Medical emergencies decreased from 55% to 20% after project implementation, indicating improvement in the quality of care of veterans with diabetes.