Anderson’s Diabetes Self Management Program Can Help
Uncontrolled diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels. While many people are aware of the immediate complications of diabetes, such as high blood sugar and the need for insulin, it is important to understand how uncontrolled diabetes can affect the entire body over time. From head to toe, this condition can wreak havoc on various organs and systems, leading to serious health complications.
1. Cardiovascular System: Uncontrolled diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
2. Nervous System: Diabetes can cause nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition primarily affects the feet and legs, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain. Over time, it can also affect the nerves in other parts of the body, including the digestive system, causing problems with digestion and bowel movements.
3. Eyes: Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This can cause vision problems, including blurred vision, floaters, and even blindness if left untreated.
4. Kidneys: Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood. This can eventually lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
5. Skin: People with uncontrolled diabetes are more prone to skin infections and slow wound healing. High blood sugar levels can impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Additionally, poor circulation can lead to dry, itchy skin and foot ulcers that are difficult to heal.
6. Digestive System: Diabetes can affect the nerves that control the digestive system, leading to problems such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), which can cause nausea, vomiting, and bloating. It can also lead to constipation or diarrhea.
7. Sexual Health: Uncontrolled diabetes can affect both men and women’s sexual health. In men, it can lead to erectile dysfunction, while women may experience vaginal dryness and decreased libido.
8. Immune System: High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making individuals with uncontrolled diabetes more susceptible to infections, including urinary tract infections, skin infections, and respiratory infections.
It is crucial for individuals with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels through proper diet, regular exercise, medication, and regular check-ups with healthcare professionals. By doing so, they can minimize the risk of complications and maintain a healthier, more fulfilling life.
EXTRAORDINARY NURSE RECOGNIZED AT ANDERSON HOSPITAL
October 25, 2023 (Maryville, IL) – Intensive Care Unit Nurse, Adam Quitmeyer, RN, of Anderson Hospitalwas recently honored with The DAISY Award® For Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s programs to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day.
The nomination submitted read:
“I was in the hospital following an ER visit and emergency Pace Maker implanted. Adam was the Nurse on the ICU level at night during my stay. He was just exceptionally kind, constantly checked on me, answered tons of questions, and continuously went above and beyond. I was quite scared considering my heart had such a large issue, but Adam kept checking on me, letting me know he would return, offered his assistance with every little thing to include making sure I was hydrating, checking my hydration levels, getting me food, and preparing me for all of my tests. My family was not able to stay at the hospital and thanks to Adam I didn’t feel so lonely and he was so reassuring and kind. I had an issue where my chest was hurting badly and made me very nervous. When I told him about it rather than just addressing it he took the time to explain what was happening and why it was hurting. He explained that the muscle where the PaceMaker was attached was irritated and that the areas around it can become tense and have pain as well. He then got me some pain medication and checked on me multiple times to make sure I was feeling better. I am very thankful that I had Adam on shift during my stay at Anderson Hospital and wished every medical professional was as kind, caring, and thorough as he was.”
The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation is based in Glen Ellen, CA, and was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.
Changes in Leadership: As we continue to grow and evolve as an organization, it is essential to ensure that our leadership structure aligns with our goals and objectives. With this in mind, we have made some strategic changes in leadership including the appointment of a new Chief Nursing Officer.
Current Chief Nursing and Operating Officer for Anderson Hospital, Lisa Spencer, will transition to Anderson Hospital President in early 2024. On October 11, she announced the appointment of Andrea Burns, RN, BSN, as the incoming Chief Nursing Officer.
Andrea has been a Registered Nurse for over 30 years, with 23 of those being at Anderson Hospital. “Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills; inspiring and motivating her team to provide the highest quality of care,” said Lisa. “Andrea brings an incredible wealth of knowledge and heart to the Administration Department.”
Andrea has a proven track record of driving positive change and implementing innovative strategies to enhance patient outcomes. As our new CNO, she will play a pivotal role in shaping our nursing department’s future, ensuring the highest standards of care, and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. She will work closely with our entire team to drive excellence in nursing practice, promote professional development, and enhance patient satisfaction.
Andrea will be transitioning into her new role as she works on a replacement for her current position, Director of Care Coordination and Specialized Nursing Services. The official effective date and delegation of duties will be December 1, 2023.