Overcoming barriers to diabetes care in the hospital: The power of qualitative observations to promote positive change

AIMS: Despite advocacy by diabetes societies and evidence about how to prevent the deleterious consequences of dysglycemia among hospitalized patients, deficits in clinical practice continue to present barriers to care. The purpose of this study was to examine inpatient rounding practices using a qualitative research lens to assess challenges on the care of hospitalized patients with diabetes and to develop ideas for positive changes in hospital management of diabetes and hyperglycemia. METHODS: We conducted an interpretive analysis of qualitative observations during medical and surgical inpatient rounds at an academic institution. We coded, analysed, and reported data as thematic findings. RESULTS: Emerging themes include omissions in discussions during rounds; unpreparedness to address diabetes or dysglycemia during rounds; identifying practice improvement opportunities to address diabetes issues: and recognizing accountability within the routine of practice. CONCLUSIONS: This work guides clinicians and informs systems of practice about improvement strategies that can emerge from within hospital teams. These recommendations emphasize the interconnectedness of practice elements including thoughtful review of glucose status during rounds among patients with and without diabetes; fostering doctors and nurses to work in unison; promoting awareness and integration within and across disciplines; and advocating for better use of existing resources.