Nurse Practitioner Practice Patterns Based on Standards of Medical Care for Patients With Diabetes

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To determine to what extent nurse practitioner (NP) practice patterns of diabetes care are consistent with standards of care suggested by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A descriptive study was conducted to examine practice patterns. A convenience sample of 78 charts was audited, representing a proportionate number of charts for each of the six masters-prepared, certified NPs employed in an ambulatory primary-care center. RESULTS Practice patterns related to diabetes care revealed a discrepancy between established standards of care and the degree to which care was documented. All six NPs acknowledged that they became clinically competent to care for patients with diabeteson the job. CONCLUSIONS Results of this small study suggest that NPs are not consistently following standards of care suggested by the ADA.