1 – There are a couple things that went well and as planned. Family A was encouraged to engage in physical activity and to continue with follow up care. Family A did engage in physical activity. Every morning Family A goes for a run for at least 2 hours. Also, they are taking advantage of all the activities offered at the John F. Kennedy Recreation and Aquatic Center located in Newark, NJ. Since the weather has been getting warmer, the more they are encouraged to go for a run every morning. Family A stated due to being engaged in physical activity and exercise, they are starting to feel a lot better. Prior to exercise, husband stated, he would become out of breath fairly quickly after going up 2-3 steps. But now realizes the importance of healthy eating and exercise. Family A is also following up more often with PCP and is compliant with testing and medication. “Adults who adhere to national guidelines for a healthy diet and physical activity have lower cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than those who do not. All persons, regardless of their CVD risk status, benefit from healthy eating behaviors and appropriate physical activity.” (Krist, A. H. et al, 2020)
What did not go as planned is the short-term goal to lose 1 lb. per week. Family A did admit to cheating on their healthy food choice habit. At times they would order fast food just because it is convenient but was re-educated. Verbalized understanding and agreed to make better food choices for the sake of their health. Family A understood the reason for their weight gain although they are exercising.
What I would do differently in the future is involve real life situations when educating Families so they can relate for better outcomes. I would also suggest that they become volunteers if convenient for them in facilities with patients with similar health issues.
2- The teaching plan went well. The video illustrated the increase in the glucose level of the patient and its impact on their body. The family understood the common signs and symptoms of both prediabetes and diabetes. Ghozali (2023) explained that a video serves as a replacement “for an object needed to facilitate learning, but unable to be watched directly, such as the process of insulin formation and secretion; it can be used to explain the process accurately, and the patient can scan and watch it repeatedly” (p. 8).
There were no negative results. The brochure provided was clear and detailed, and the family agreed to visit #FIT and enroll in the group fitness training. The family commented that the PowerPoint presentation made them comprehend the importance of the kind of exercise in lowering blood glucose levels, and it urged them to take nutrition coaching and seek a customized meal plan.
In the future, I would still incorporate videos into my patient education as it will be easier to explain bodily processes and they can repeatedly watch the medium for clarity.
