Dissertation
Development and Implementation of a Student-Led Prediabetes Risk Screening Program in a Community-Based Setting
University of Iowa
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
Spring 2026
Abstract
Background: People who experience food insecurity, homelessness, and other adverse social determinants of health are less likely to have consistent access to a healthcare provider and routine healthcare. Approximately 20% of those who have been diagnosed with diabetes do not have a consistent care provider. Up to 85% of those with prediabetes and 22-36% of those with diabetes do not know they have the condition. Purpose: The purpose of this project is to increase screening and referral services to improve access to healthcare for people experiencing food insecurity at a free meal site. This project focuses on a student-led community-based prediabetes program, including risk screening, prevention education, and referrals to community healthcare providers. Methods: This evidence-based DNP project was guided by the Iowa Model Revised. Baccalaureate level student nurse volunteers supervised by an advanced registered nurse practitioner were trained and conducted a prediabetes risk screening at a free meal site, provided diabetic prevention education, and facilitated warm hand-off referrals to local healthcare providers. Data was collected for three months. Findings: All five volunteers scored 100% on the post test. A total of 17 guests, or 1.9% of 893 total guests, completed either the paper or blood glucose prediabetes screening. Twenty-nine percent (n=5) were identified as high risk for prediabetes or diabetes. Forty percent (n=2) of those identified as high risk for prediabetes scheduled an appointment with a healthcare provider at the time of the prediabetes screening. Eleven guests, including those were both at high risk and those who were not, completed diabetes education with the student volunteers. Discussion: Nursing students can successfully lead a program to screen for prediabetes in the community. Prediabetes risk screening programs and referrals to healthcare providers are valuable for vulnerable populations.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Development and Implementation of a Student-Led Prediabetes Risk Screening Program in a Community-Based Setting
- Creators
- Carly Reed - University of Iowa
- Contributors
- Tess Judge-Ellis (Chair) - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Project Type
- Poster
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Date degree season
- Spring 2026
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- 1 page
- Copyright
- Copyright © 2026 Carly Reed
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Nursing; Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects
- Record Identifier
- 9985217821402771
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