WINNER
‘DEVICE’ (Diabetes Emergencies: Virtual Interactive Clinical Education) Project
by DEVICE Project Team and Oxford Medical Simulation
The DEVICE project team and Oxford Medical Simulation collaborated to explore the feasibility of virtual reality (VR) as a means of delivering effective training in diabetes emergencies for non-specialist trainees. ‘DEVICE’ (Diabetes Emergencies: Virtual Interactive Clinical Education) was developed to improve competence and reduce medical errors. Fully interactive immersive VR scenarios were created to simulate real-life diabetes emergencies. Users then received personalised feedback and performance metrics. Results revealed increased confidence in managing diabetes emergencies and demonstrated positive changes in behaviour. VR education is a safe, valuable and well-liked training tool for diabetes emergencies with great potential.
Judges' comments:
"The judges agreed that this entry was an example of innovation at its very best, using technology for training that can be adapted, and using tech to transform outcomes in a positive way. They were impressed with how the device can be used and applied anywhere, while being easily transferable. One judge noted that as a training tool for new staff, it would definitely be a viable option. A well-deserved winner."
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Eden/Sanofi Cares Programme
by Leicester Diabetes Centre
Sanofi Cares is a national diabetes education programme for health and social care staff. It provides comprehensive, competency-based training, including a knowledge and confidence framework.
In collaboration with Sanofi, Eden provided virtual diabetes training based on the Eden Cares programme through Leicester Diabetes Centre. The aim is to standardise care across the United Kingdom for all those in care home and domiciliary settings, ensuring that good quality care is standard, variation reduced, and the quality of diabetes care improved. The programme was launched on 1 May 2021.
Judges' comments:
"The judges were thoroughly impressed with Leicester Diabetes Centre’s well-written and well-covered entry, as it provided a good level of user feedback, alongside excellent live mentoring. The judges commented that it felt this entry took into account different aspects in order to be inclusive in what is often a neglected area. Additionally, the judges noted the entry made an emphasis in its initiative on reducing the financial burden on the NHS."
COMMENDED
SANDRA - Supporting prActice Nurses in Diabetes Care Revalidation & Appraisal
by NHS Grampian
NHS Grampian noted a concern that the number of experienced Practice Nurses (PN) intending to leave the profession within the next five years would leave a shortage of trained professionals to undertake the care of people living with diabetes. To ensure high quality healthcare was delivered for patients they knew they must ensure healthcare professionals had the knowledge, practical skills and training required to undertake their roles. However, many did not feel ready to offer diabetes care without further preceptorship, education and time. The SANDRA (Supporting prActice Nurses in Diabetes, Revalidation and Appraisal) programme was developed to meet this need.
Judges' comments:
"The judges thought the SANDRA project was a great initiative, recognising the benefits of working in a small group and demonstrated big picture thinking, rather than working on a micro level. The entry also did a great job in understanding the relevance of geography and how challenging implementation can be in rural areas. Even faced with challenges, the team seemed focused on improvements and remedying workforce issues. Moreover, this entry recognises a big issue and the judges were impressed with the provision of a support network, with secondary care specialists helping their primary care peers."
FINALIST
Finite Resources: Infinite Possibilities to Maintain Diabetes Education and Support During the Challenges of COVID-19 and Beyond
by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
A suite of diabetes educational resources was developed by the CoDES (COmmunity Diabetes Education and Support) Team at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust to ensure ongoing educational development and support to all healthcare professionals during the pandemic and beyond. CoDES is a small team comprising two DSNs with finite resources and a significant remit to provide for health care professional education. The new resources were based on local population needs and enabled the team to continue with educational support during COVID-19 challenges, at a time when education and support was never more paramount.
Judges' comments:
"This entry was well conducted with excellent social innovation. The judges commended Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust on submitting this entry and on making a successful move from face-to-face to online, and also mentioned how it has taken education further for all grades of staff in terms of support and aftercare."