Understanding the role of insulin in our bodies and its impact on those living with diabetes
There are 4.3 million people living with a diagnosis of diabetes in the UK.
As part of Insulin Safety Week, the Diabetes team in our adult rehabilitation service division (ASR) will be taking part in several activities aimed to educate staff about the important role of the hormone in our bodies and its impact on those living with diabetes.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose (sugar) to enter the body’s cells and be used for energy. Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose level is too high. It can happen when your body doesn't produce any insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or when the insulin it does provide isn’t effective enough (Type 2 diabetes). Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, which can lead to serious complications.
The Diabetes team in our ASR division consists of our specialist diabetes nurse Christabel Uluocha, and a diabetes link nurse on each ward and intermediate care unit. These nurses support patients with diabetes and link in with Christabel if they need further guidance.
This week the team is providing training to doctors, nurses and healthcare assistants on how to administer insulin to patients with diabetes, highlighting how they can avoid errors when prescribing the medication and quickly treat a patient who is hypoglycaemic (has low blood glucose and maybe unconscious or unable to swallow).
“The training will increase staff confidence in recognising and managing hypo - and hyperglycaemia, understanding insulin safety, and supporting patients with diabetes more effectively. It also includes practical guidance on insulin administration, storage, and patient education. By improving knowledge and awareness, the course supports safer clinical practice, reduces medication errors, and promotes better patient outcomes across all wards and departments,” says Christabel.
There will also be an information stand at Moseley Hall Hospital (MHH) containing leaflets and posters about insulin safety and diabetes management, educational materials for staff and patients, resources sent out by Diabetes UK and contact details of the Diabetes team for ongoing support.
“We’re really excited about Insulin Safety Week as it’s a fantastic opportunity to promote safer diabetes care across the Trust. If anyone would like further information or has questions, we’re more than happy to support in any way we can. I will be at our stand in front of the canteen at MHH,” says Christabel.
Pictured: left to right — Jess Kirby, Tolu Awosanya, Katy Woodhouse and Christabel Uluocha.