Daily Piece: Transforming Complications Conversation

Prior to reading an article by Renza and Chris (they live with diabetes so they have full creditability) in BMJ, I thought that I was doing great when I shared “you do not have to have complications from diabetes, they are preventable” to a person with newly diagnosed diabetes. I assumed that this statement would empower the person with diabetes. Well, as it turns out this language is not so helpful. Implying that complications are preventable can create a sense of blame in the person with diabetes if they develop complications. Reframing the conversation so focus is on reducing complications which creates opportunity for person to share more freely and openly without feeling judged. Shift the focus from prevention of complications to daily care. As a diabetes educator, I have committed to transform my conversations with persons with diabetes. Will you join me this commitment?

https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.k5258

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