Diabetes Technology Assistant

Job summary

• To work as part of the diabetes team, under the supervision and guidance of the Diabetes Specialist Nurses, in the support of people with diabetes in the hospital setting
• To provide education to patients (one-to-one and in groups) to promote self-management of diabetes
• To encourage and support people with diabetes to manage their condition more effectively with the use of glucose monitoring systems (worn technology) and smart pens. The role will include training on glucose monitoring, smart pens, mobile phone apps, email, enabling the sharing of data and supporting with any technical issues patients may have.
• To carry out delegated healthcare tasks and to prioritise and maintain own patient caseload of people referred for education or technical support
• This patient facing role is suitable for someone who enjoys educating and caring for others and is competent with communication technology. Ability to work independently is also important. The successful candidate will be required to adapt training and support according to patient age and ability. Some patients may require repeat appointments until they are comfortable and competent with the technology.
• Support with ensuring data sharing prior to/at planned clinic appointments and teaching patients how to do this from home where possible

Main duties of the job

• To work within own sphere of competence and within agreed protocols
• To undertake agreed clinical activities with patients under the direct and indirect supervision of the DSN team.
• To work at the pace of the patient with explanation in understandable language.
• Flexible response to patient difficulty with technology or equipment
• To demonstrate and support the setup of glucose monitoring systems, sensors, readers and apps
• To demonstrate how to use glucose sensors and meters, how to download and send clinical information so that it is accessible for clinic appointments
• To make relevant and necessary decisions on substitute meters, finger-pricking and glucose reading devices
• To support with HbA1c measurements once trained and capillary monitoring where appropriate
• To practice in a patient centred way that supports physical and psychological wellbeing and facilitates patient self-management
• To offer telephone, email, virtual and face to face support as needed
• To provide educational material and advice to patients to ensure continuity of care

• To exchange effective communication with patients, family and carers
• To liaise when necessary with the DSN's and the wider diabetes team
• To report any accidents, incidents or other relevant issues to the DSN.

About us

At Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust we provide 'outstanding' care to both our patients and our staff. We support staff through benefits, health and wellbeing initiatives and opportunities for personal and professional development.

• An inclusive and supportive culture - our Trust encourages staff to bring their whole selves to work and active Staff Networks identify areas for improvement.
• Staff Recognition - as well as regular appraisals, we recognise staff with our Making a Difference, Team of the Month Awards & Colleague Recognition Awards
• Employee Support and wellbeing - we have a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, counselling service and fast track physiotherapy service for employees.
• Staff Benefits - We have a range of staff benefits and schemes to support staff health, engagement, wellbeing and inclusion.

Employer details

Employer name

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Diabetes Centre Harrogate District Hospital

Lancaster Park Road

Harrogate

HG2 7SX

Employer's website

https://www.hdft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

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Employer details

Employer name

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Diabetes Centre Harrogate District Hospital

Lancaster Park Road

Harrogate

HG2 7SX

Employer's website

https://www.hdft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

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