ABC of Diabetes
I suspect that for the majority of paramedics, exposure to the world of endocrinology is limited to managing diabetic emergencies, specifically hypo- or hyperglycaemia. In the case of the latter, this is likely to involve either a referral to a GP/diabetic nurse or conveyance to A&E. Paradoxically, this is one of the most common emergencies a paramedic is tasked to, and even if not directly related to the disease itself, a number of disease processes can impact on it. So a welcome text to review but how does this market itself to paramedics?
The early detection and prevention of diabetes may historically rest with GPs, but increasingly paramedics are being asked to promote wider health benefits to patients, so there is some useful background information here. More specific complications of the disease, such as during pregnancy, I would suggest is best left to the medical specialists in that field, although a generic introduction is provided and a general awareness of such complications is no bad thing. Similarly, cardiovascular and renal complications are given some attention, as is a brief overview of the psychological issues associated with diabetes.
‘Overview’ is the key word here, and for fear of repetition, depth is compromised for the sake of breadth. As an introductory text, however, as are all in the ABC series, this is quite effective.
Embracing recent discussions relating to a paramedic's scope of practice and associated levels of education, this is precisely the sort of area of medicine a paramedic could contribute more to than simply the administration of glucagon or glucose. In broadening one's scope of practice one must also widen their reading material. On that score, this text paves the way.
A sound introduction. Worth a read.