How To Become A Certified Diabetes Nurse Educator

How To Become A Diabetes Educator Nurse In 5 Steps

Becoming a Diabetes Educator!

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As a medical professional, there are ways you can help educate the public about chronic illness. If you have an interest and background in caring for diabetes patients, you may choose to teach about this disease. With your instruction, you can help those affected by diabetes live healthier lives. In this article, we explain how to become a diabetes educator nurse along with everything this role entails.

Diabetes Educator: Education Requirements

Specialized education can build your skills in assisting people with diabetes and help you to qualify for certain jobs. Professionals with a masters degree in social work may be prepared to counsel patients and their families so they can adapt to the changes in their lives. Healthcare social workers have the knowledge and experience to help people plan for the long term as they navigate their treatment.

Some positions require a masters degree in nutrition, which helps educators understand the complex role that diet plays in maintaining a healthy lifestyle with diabetes. The right nutritional choices can help diabetics control their blood sugar, respond better to insulin and lower their risk for cardiovascular disease. Several common eating patterns have been shown to help people with diabetes sustain a healthier lifestyle:

Vegetarian or vegan
Mediterranean, which focuses on plant-based foods with some dairy, fish and poultry
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension , which is specifically designed to lower blood pressure

Certified Diabetes Nurse Educator Resources

American Association of Diabetes Educators
National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators
American Diabetes Association

US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics

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How To Become A Certified Educator Nurse

Diabetes nurse educators can opt to obtain a diabetes nurse educator certification from the Certification Board for Diabetes Care and Education . The CBDCE offers an exam that leads to a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist designation.

To qualify for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist designation exam, an applicant must meet these diabetes nurse educator certification requirements

Have at least 1,000 hours of diabetes education that was earned within four years prior to the exam. It is noted that at least 40% of this experience must have happened with the previous year.
Have at least two years professionally practicing an acceptable discipline.
Note Certification is required to be renewed every five years.

Additionally, CDCES designation holders must complete at least 15 hours of continuing education related to diabetes to meet the certification requirements.

Accreditation For Online Msn In Diabetes Nursing Programs

Why You Should See a Certified Diabetes Educator

Prospective students interested in completing a diabetes nurse educator course online can verify the legitimacy of a program by reviewing its accreditation status. In the U.S., accreditation is a voluntary process in which schools submit to a rigorous review by an accreditation agency that holds recognition from the Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation .

The ED and CHEA recognize different types of accrediting agencies. Regional accreditation, which applies to an entire college or university, sets the gold standard for higher education accreditation. National accreditation represents another form of institutional accreditation, but trade schools or for-profit institutions typically receive this designation.

Additionally, programmatic accreditation focuses on specific programs at a school. In the nursing field, the Commision on Collegiate Nursing Education serves as a primary accreditor, recognizing a variety of bachelor’s, graduate, and residency nursing degrees. Applicants can verify their prospective school’s accreditation status online by visiting the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

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Financing Your Online Msn In Diabetes Nursing Program

Students pursuing a diabetes nurse educator course online can apply for financial assistance from the U.S. government, individual states, hospitals, and private donors. To get started, prospective students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Nurses can also inquire about loan forgiveness programs offered by state offices and local hospitals. Searching through other scholarship opportunities, such as the options listed below, can lead to additional sources of financial support.

Where Do Certified Diabetes Nurse Educators Typically Work

Certified diabetes nurse educators find employment in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, physician practices, public health, home health, and wellness programs. Typically they work in association with an accredited diabetes education program, one which has met the requirements of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, allowing for billing for diabetes self-management education for individuals or for groups.

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The Need For Diabetes Nurse Educators

Diabetes is a leading cause of death and disability. It is the most frequent cause of renal failure. Blindness, loss of limbs, and general poor health arise when people do not control their diabetes well, or are not aware that they have diabetes. Diabetes is a condition which impacts every system of the body. Approximately sixty percent of individuals who suffer from diabetes have high blood pressure. All diabetics have an elevated risk of developing cardiovascular disease however over half of all people who have diabetes are unaware of their increased chances for having these potentially life threatening illnesses. If healthy habits, proper nutrition, control of blood pressure, regular health screenings, and tight glucose control are maintained the risk factors for developing life destroying complications from diabetes decrease dramatically. Hence the need for nurses who are well prepared to educate patients. If you become a nurse educator for people who have diabetes you will save lives and empower patients to make choices which will lead to improved health and fewer complications from their illness.

Find The Right Employer

Rachel Dowd, RN, CDE – Certified Diabetes Educator – CHI Health

Once earning your degree and certification, you may want to look for an employer that supports this kind of work. Certified diabetes educator nurses often work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, private practices, public health facilities and nursing homes. Those in this role may also travel to provide at-home care and education. Do some background research to find employers that collaborate with an accredited diabetes education program to ensure you have the opportunity to help diabetes patients who need special care.

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Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Test

A Certified Diabetes Educator is a health care professional who has extensive knowledge of and experience in diabetes management, prediabetes, and diabetes prevention. The responsibilities of a CDE include, but are not limited to:

assisting patients with self-management to reduce health risks
supporting patients through the stages of diabetes
educating patients on treatment options and healthy practices

To become a CDE, health professionals must pass the Certification Examination for Diabetes Educators, which tests applicants foundational knowledge and practices. The CDE is a practice-based certification, ideal for professionals who have hands-on experience in the field.

Scholarships For Msn In Diabetes Nursing Students

Who Can Apply: The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium offers multiple scholarships to Alaska native or American Indian students pursuing healthcare-related degrees. Since scholarship requirements vary, students should contact ANTHC for application details.

Amount: $5,000

Who Can Apply: Any member of PENS who has held membership for at least three years and currently works in the field of pediatric endocrine nursing may apply for this scholarship to further their nursing education. PENS accepts applications two times a year, and applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, and a copy of their RN license.

Amount: Up to $1,000

Who Can Apply: AANP awards scholarships to licensed registered nurses enrolled in accredited graduate programs. Students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and applicants should submit a resume, transcripts, and two reference letters.

Amount: Up to $2,500

Who Can Apply: Applicants who demonstrate an interest in global health may apply for this merit-based scholarship. Judges consider an applicant’s registration , essays , and work history . Applicants must also hold a minimum 3.2 GPA.

Amount: $3,000

Amount: $2,000

Amount: $2,500

Amount: $2,000

Amount: $1,000

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Where Do Certified Diabetes Educators Work

The job duties of a certified diabetes educator involve educating patients who have prediabetes or have received a diabetes diagnosis regarding lifestyle changes, prevention strategies, and disease management practices. A CDE may find employment in hospitals or medical clinics where they work with patients on a by-appointment basis. Other educators work at community centers, health outreach facilities, or other centers operated by government health agencies or nonprofit groups. Some educators offer home service and travel to provide education to elderly or disabled patients in their home or residential facility. The qualifications you need to become a certified diabetes educator vary, but include certification through the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators.

What Is A Certified Diabetes Nurse Educator

A certified diabetes nurse educator specializes in providing care and guidance for patients with Type I, Type II and gestational diabetes, working with individuals or with groups. Certified diabetes nurse educators teach about the causes, pathophysiology and signs and symptoms of diabetes. They teach patients about self-assessment related to complications of diabetes, and the importance of following the treatment regime. They also teach patients about diet and nutrition related to maintaining appropriate blood glucose levels, as well as how to monitor those levels. They teach patients about oral and injectable diabetes medications, including correct administration, time of peak effects, signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to avoid a drop in blood sugar. Insulin dependent diabetics must learn about the differing types of insulin, including the time of onset and peak effects. They participate in monitoring and tracking lab test result, such as periodic hemoglobin A1C checks. In addition, they teach patients about what the test is and the information it supplies. If the patient is having difficulty managing the disease, the nurse educator can enlist a family member or friend to assist the patient. They can report concerns, problems with the treatment regime, or barrier to compliance to the physician, then implement and evaluation of changes to the treatment plan.

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When Should You See One

It can be helpful to see a diabetes educator at certain points in your care. He or she can:

Get you started when you’re first diagnosed with diabetes.
Check in once a year for a review of your health and daily routine.
Show you how to handle a new health problem along with your diabetes.
Help you work with a new health care team.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Current as of: April 13, 2022

What Degree Do You Need To Be A Certified Diabetes Educator

It is noted that a baccalaureate degree in healthcare is the bare-bones requirement for a diabetic nurse educator however, most diabetic nurse educators possess more advanced or graduate degrees or certification.

There are many MSN programs throughout the country as they offered on-campus, online, or hybrid delivery of both.

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How Much Do Certified Diabetes Nurse Educators Earn

Nursing, in general, is identified as one of the fastest growing professions in the US in terms of salary, with a projected growth of 16% or higher, much higher than the national average. The median annual salary for nurses is 68,450, but the range of potential salary can vary, depending on degrees and certifications held, type of employment, and geographical location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the top five states for general nursing salaries are

Specialty certification can increase earnings significantly. Salaries are generally higher in urban areas, however, the cost of living is typically higher, as well. In addition, bachelors prepared nurses tend to earn higher salaries than nurses with associate degree in nursing. The average annual salary for nurse managers ranges from $70,190 86,189.

Best Online Msn In Diabetes Nursing Programs

Hð¨ð¦ow to Become a Diabetes Educator in Canada ð?? Nurse Practitioner Student

RNs can pursue courses online in diabetes education, diabetes management, or endocrinology to learn the challenges of diabetes care.

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Diabetes stands out as a fast-growing, far-reaching, and expensive health crisis in the U.S. and throughout the developed world. Experts project that 54.9 million Americans will receive a diabetes diagnosis from 2015-2030 and that diabetes deaths will rise by 38% over that period. Additionally, researchers project that diabetes-related costs will increase by 53% by 2030. Such a high-impact disease requires specialized care to prevent, treat, and improve patient outcomes. Registered nurses can pursue a diabetes nurse educator course online in diabetes education, diabetes management, or endocrinology to learn the clinical and professional skills needed to tackle the challenges of diabetes care and management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that advanced nursing professions will grow by 31% from 2016-2026 more than four times the growth rate for all occupations in the nation. As the need for diabetes care grows, nurses will stand on the front lines to help address this major public health issue.

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Diabetes Nurse Educator Overview

What You Will Do: A certified diabetes nurse educator specializes in providing guidance and management for patients with Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as gestational diabetes.
Where Will You Work: Certified diabetes nurse educators work in the hospital setting, with private physician practices, or in public health and community clinics.
Employment Projections: Nursing is expected to be one of the fastest-growing professions, with growth projected at 16% 23%. Similarly, the need for certified diabetes nurse educators continues to increase, given the aging population and related diabetes.
How Much Will I Earn: The average annual salary for professional nurses is $68,450 factors such as level of degree, specialty certification, geographical location and level of experience will affect salary. The average annual salary for certified diabetes nurse educators ranges from $70,190 86,189.
Requirements to Become One: Become a registered nurse complete an accredited nursing program, preferably earning bachelors degree in nursing , then obtain licensure as a professional registered nurse by passing the NCLEX-RN examination.

What Do They Do

Why is a certified diabetes educator important? The counseling and education offered to those patients include the prevention of diabetes, plus working with patients who are prediabetic or currently have Type I, Type II and gestational diabetes much of which will be listed in a typical diabetes nurse educator job description.

Proper nutrition to help manage diabetes. Diabetics must understand how to read food labels and learn how carbohydrates, sugars, and sodium impacts a diabetics system.
Prevent most diabetic related conditions by having enough sleep.
Sufficient exercise.
Medication dosing is an integral part of the management of diabetes. Medication for diabetes includes pills and injectable medications. If they are insulin-dependent, patients must understand the signs of low blood sugar.
Blood Glucose Monitoring process is an essential part of managing a diabetic condition. Patients must learn to log their blood sugar readings and dietary choices to help maintain acceptable blood sugar levels.
The importance of A1C hemoglobin tests on a regular basis.
Optimize the health outcomes for patients.

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Become A Registered Nurse

Before becoming a diabetes educator nurse, you must become a licensed registered nurse. You can do this by enrolling in an accredited nursing program to earn your Bachelor of Science degree, typically taking four years to complete. During your program, expect to learn about all kinds of sciences, such as biology, chemistry and anatomy. During your later years of nursing school, you’ll also need to complete clinicals to get a full understanding of patient care.

After graduating from your nursing program, you need to earn your RN license in order to legally practice as a registered nurse. You can obtain your license by passing the NCLEX-RN exam in the state you wish to work. This is a rigorous test, making it important to study well in advance and quiz yourself with practice questions.

Job Opportunities For Msn In Diabetes Nursing Graduates

An aging population and a propensity to rely on high-sugar, low-nutrition diets have contributed to a record 100 million Americans with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This fact, coupled with the country’s drastic shortage of qualified physicians, means nurses with an MSN in diabetes care can take on a significant role in helping shape and lead healthcare in the U.S. These nurses can help reduce the serious financial burden and deleterious health effects of diabetes for patients while also earning a lucrative salary.

$104,115

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Certified Diabetes Educator Study Guide Customer Success Stories

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