Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

The Luton and Dunstable Hospital Diabetes team embraced the theme ‘T.E.C.H.’ during Insulin Safety Week by basing their activities around the following areas:

  • Technology
  • Engagement
  • Comprehension
  • Harmlessness

Technology: Showcasing diabetes innovations

To highlight current diabetes technology, the team set up an ‘ISW Stall’ that introduced healthcare professionals (HCPs) to the latest insulin pumps and glucose sensors. Fun quizzes were integrated to make the experience more engaging. The stall drew in over 130 HCPs, significantly raising awareness and interest in diabetes technology.

Engagement: Fostering active participation

To ensure active involvement from HCPs, the team organised a competition to design ‘Insulin Safety and Diabetes Technology Information Boards’. All wards were encouraged to participate, resulting in over ten wards joining the contest. The top three displays were awarded prizes, fostering a spirit of competition and creativity around the theme of insulin safety.

Comprehension: Enhancing knowledge and awareness

A new initiative of daily ISW bulletin emails was introduced to all HCPs. These bulletins aimed to bolster understanding and knowledge of insulin safety and advancements in diabetes technology, featuring top tips and ten-minute tech talks. The feedback on these bulletins was overwhelmingly positive, indicating a successful enhancement in HCPs’ comprehension of the topics.

Harmlessness: Prioritising patient safety

Focusing on patient safety, the team provided education on critical aspects of insulin safety identified from recent audits and experiences. This year’s education spotlight was on the transition from paper to electronic prescribing, aiming to prevent prescription delays or errors. This targeted education was pivotal in reinforcing safe practices among staff.

Insulin Safety Week 2024 has been funded by Dexcom, Embecta, GlucoRx, Medtronic, Sanofi and Ypsomed which have had no input into any arrangements or content.