Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer & a variety of other health consequences for adults. This session reviews how diabetes care & education specialists can provide screening, assessment, & trauma-informed care to individuals who experienced ACEs & are living with toxic stress. We will explore strategies to address ACES & improve outcomes for individuals & communities. Throughout, we will focus on supporting self-care with a focus on recognizing & promoting resilience.

Objectives:

1. Discuss the benefits of assessing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) in individuals with diabetes.
2. State the relationship between ACE Scores & the risk of future health complications.
3. Describe a person-centered approach to fostering resilience & self-care for individuals with toxic stress.
4. Identify two strategies to provide trauma-informed care in your work setting.

Learning Outcome:

Participants will identify how trauma can impact diabetes and self-management along with strategies to support hope when working with people with diabetes.

Target Audience:

This course is a knowledge-based activity designed for individuals or groups of diabetes professionals, including RNs, RDs/RDNs, Pharmacists, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Physician Assistants, and other healthcare providers interested in staying up to date on current practices of care for people with prediabetes, diabetes, and other related conditions. The practice areas for RDs/RDNs for CDR reporting are healthcare, preventative care, wellness, and, lifestyle along with, education and research.

Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, has been Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management for over 15 years. She is an Associate Clinical Professor at UCSF, a working educator, and a nationally recognized diabetes expert.