As the name implies, certified diabetes educator (CDE) is a position with specific certification requirements. In addition to being a certified diabetic specialist, many positions have further requirements. Common requirements include being a registered nurse (RN), Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) certifications, a bachelor's or master's degree in nursing, a bachelor's or master's degree in nutrition, or other related training. In some cases, these requirements are mandatory before applying, while some employers will provide employees with the opportunity to complete these requirements during their first few years of work.
The CDE educates patients on dietary needs and general health. This may include specific diets aimed to treat medical conditions or diets geared towards general well being to prevent disease. Planning diets and following up with patients to ensure motivation and dedication are a part of the job. They must also serve as a general community resource . This includes regularly communicating with patients, providing educational materials to those interested, and keeping records of all patient interaction.
General skills required in this position include communication, computer, and organizational skills; all of these help employee effectively share knowledge of diet and nutrition with patients. The work environment is indoors, typically in an office or hospital setting, while work hours are limited to general business operating hours. Risks and physical requirements are generally limited to basic office tasks.
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) Tasks
Counsel individuals and groups on basic rules of good nutrition, healthy eating habits, and how to control blood sugar levels.
Educate individuals and communities by assisting in the management of diabetes.
Assess nutritional needs, diet restrictions and current health plans to develop and implement dietary-care plans and provide nutritional counseling.