Stories from the NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement Diabetes in-patient workshop

Going into hospital presents particular challenges to people with diabetes. These stories were developed so that the ‘Think Glucose’ toolkit would be able to carry within it the experiences and stories of some of those patients.

Taking control
Barbara has had plenty of time to reach an accommodation with diabetes, and knows what works for her, even when the health professionals are uncertain.

Extremes
George is used to receiving good treatment in hospital so when he is asked to hand over his diabetes kit, he agrees with some trepidation. His concerns are not misplaced as poor treatment results in dangerously high blood sugar levels.

A hospital is no place for a diabetic
As a diabetic, Peter is accustomed to managing his blood sugar levels. When hospital staff appear to take little interest in his diabetes, Peter’s concern about what might happen during the operation leads him to wonder why there can’t be an official handover.

Double trouble
Caring for a partner with Diabetes requires a wide range of skills, in order to provide effective care and deal with hospital and emergency services.

Hard-boiled eggs
It’s easy to make assumptions. Sometimes the results are amusing, and sometimes they have far-reaching consequences.