In an article by Huges, L. she discusses the importance of patient education when they are diagnosed with diabetes and establishes an acronym called "SAFE" to help nurses remember four very important elements in diabetes education.
"SAFE" stands for; Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia as well as management, Administration of oral hypoglycemic agents and/or insulin, Finger-stick blood glucose monitoring, Emergency numbers to call and outpatient diabetes education.
For signs and symptoms it is important to teach patients what to look for in terms of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, as well as how to manage those issues. For example if a blood glucose is less than 70 mg/dL, we would advise them to follow the American Diabetes Associations "Rule of 15".
For administration of medications we should review the patients prescribed medications, provide material to help with the learning process, and provide education on what the medication does, adverse reactions, as well as when it is best to take them. We should also have the patient observe any administration of medications, then have them self administer as we watch.
Finger-stick blood glucose monitoring is about teaching patients what their personal values should be, as well as advising them to always carry a blood glucose meter and the proper treatment options with them at all times.
Emergency numbers and education is providing patients with numbers to their doctors in case they are experiencing hypo or hyperglycemia and teaching them when to dial 911. As well as encouraging patients to continue educating themselves in a Diabetes Education Center to help manage their diabetes at home.
Citation: Hughes, L. (2012). Think 'SAFE': Four crucial elements for diabetes education. Nursing, 42(1), 58-61. doi:10.1097/01.NURSE.0000406197.96182.bf