Answer

The Use of a Mobile App to Care for a Diabetic Patient

Within the past two decades, there has been a remarkable upsurge in technological advancement and the accompanying evolution of the mode of care provided to patients. The benefits of technology in the health care sector cannot be underestimated. In particular, technology has significantly aided the treatment of type two diabetes.

Two months ago, I had the chance to care for a diabetic elderly patient. The patient arrived in the hospital for his regular check-up and I noticed that he had dry eyes and a dry mouth and this showed that he might have been suffering from dehydration. Since he could not remember his name or where he was, it was also apparent that he was incontinent and confused. Since he had previously been involved in a minor accident, he was unable to walk and was, therefore, overweight. As a result of these symptoms and observations, I conducted a diabetes test and the patient tested positive for type two diabetes. I introduced the first dose of treatment and when he was better, I introduced to him a mobile app that he could use to monitor his glucose level using his phone. Since I established that the client had memory loss problems (a common problem in elderly diabetes patients), it was apparent that the mobile app would be an effective tool in providing a self-management modality of care (Arsand et al., 2010). The mobile app provides features such as blood glucose reminders and priority support (Arsand, et al., 2010).

The mobile app has been very effective in monitoring the progress of the patient. The app had the ability to read the screen content aloud thus the patient could easily use it without his visual aid. The app also had documentation functions so from time to time I was able to assess the patient’s progress. Essentially, the app has had extensive time-saving measures since emergencies are avoided and the patient is able to make consultations from wherever he is. This novelty technology has been effective in the management of type 2 diabetes among elderly patients.

Plan of Care for the Patient

Subjective Data                                                                                             Objective Data

Increased tiredness                                                                                         dry mouth, dry eyes

Blurred vision                                                                                                 dehydration

Leg pain                                                                                                          incontinence

The initial observations that were made and the initial symptoms that were reported by the patient will be considered as data. The results of the test that was conducted will be considered as information. The documentation on the app with respect to the patient’s treatment will also be regarded as information. Nursing intervention herein will mainly be in form of blood sugar monitoring. The app that has been provided to the patient for self-management purposes has documentation features that will be used to regularly check the progress of the patient. Another nursing intervention is insulin administration (NRSNG, 2019). The third nursing intervention herein is the provision of education regarding nutritional changes and the monitoring of blood pressure (NRSNG, 2019). Follow-ups will also be made thereto. 

Technological advancements has brought about an evolution in the mode of care provided to diabetic patients. Mobile apps have particularly made self-management easier, thus improving patient outcomes.