Background: A paediatric Diabetes Ambulatory Care Service (DACS) commenced at Monash Medical Centre in 2003. Newly diagnosed patients are directly admitted for stabilization in DACS if they meet the admission criteria and overall inpatient length of stay has decreased since opening the unit. Since this time ward paediatric nursing staff reported losing confidence caring for patients with T1DM due to resulting decreased clinical exposure.
Aim: To increase nursing staff knowledge and confidence caring for paediatric patients with T1DM.
Method: Sixty needs analysis surveys were distributed to ward paediatric nursing staff. On the basis of responses received, a paediatric diabetes one day short course was developed. A pre and post questionnaire was conducted to determine knowledge gained. Participants also completed an evaluation form.
Results: Twenty-five (42%) completed needs analysis surveys were returned. Results were used to form the content of the one day course. Questionnaire results indicated nurses’ understanding of diabetes management improved by attending the course.

The course has been run twice a year for eight years, with an average of sixteen attendees per course, with ongoing revisions to course as appropriate. Courses were made available to paediatric nurses caring for paediatric diabetes patients across Southern Health sites including emergency and intensive care. Evaluation indicated that staff who attended the short course felt empowered and confident to commence basic education for newly diagnosed children and their families. However, responses highlighted staff also wanted an increased practical component to strengthen their clinical skills.
Conclusion: Results of post course evaluations demonstrated that the knowledge base of participants improved after attending the course. Evaluation feedback for additional clinical experience led to implementation of a preceptorship program for paediatric nurses in DACS.