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NHMRC Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) Fellowship (Level 2) (2013)

Abstract:
Nutrition counselling (Medical Nutrition Therapy, MNT) is the primary intervention strategy for managing blood glucose levels (BGLs) in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and guidelines recommend a dietitian as an important member of the multidisciplinary team caring for a woman with GDM. Improvements in important outcomes, such as reduced insulin requirements and improved BGL control, have been documented in a study validating American Dietetic Association (ADA) Nutrition Practice Guidelines (NPGs). In this study, women received MNT according to an evidence-based appointment schedule, with a minimum of a one-hour counselling session and three review appointments with a dietitian, plus a postnatal follow up. No Australian GDM NPGs exist and no systematic delivery of dietetic care to women during pregnancy occurs across Australia. Reasons for deviation from best practice are multifactorial and include insufficient funding of dietetic time for staffing clinics, unfamiliarity with NPGs (MNT advice and appointment schedule) amongst GDM clinic staff, and women's lack of awareness of the potential benefits of dietary manipulation and regular dietetic contact and counselling. This project aims to implement and evaluate a dietetic model of care based on the ADA's NPGs, adapted to an Australian setting, using appropriate dietary recommendations. Outcomes of this study will assist wider, state-wide NPG adoption.
Grant type:
NHMRC Translating Research into Practice Fellowships
Researchers:

  • Dr Shelley Wilkinson

    Senior Principal Research Fellow
    School of Pharmacy
    Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences
Funded by:
National Health and Medical Research Council