Table 5 Gestational diabetes education sessions at study hospitals for newly diagnosed women

Hospital A

Individual and small group education sessions

1st session (2–3 days post-diagnosis)

With a Diabetes Nurse Educator on what is gestational diabetes and how to test, record readings, monitor and manage

2^nd session (7–10 days post diagnosis)

With a Dietitian along with a record book/diary of Blood Glucose Level (BGL) readings. Based on the record book – advice provided on importance of healthy eating, nutrition in pregnancy, and a target range of BGL maintenance; and how to maintain with diet and exercise

Hospital B

Split group sessions of 2 + hours

English speaking and Non-English speaking with interpreters

Topics covered:

What is gestational diabetes mellitus and self-management of condition including testing, reading, recording, and monitoring of BGLs, and how to use glucometer

Importance of diet and exercise in management of the condition. Broad information on nutrition in pregnancy, healthy eating – information on carbohydrate, sugar and fat intake

Hospital C

Group session 2 + hours long

Non-English-speaking women are seen individually with interpreters

1st hour on what is gestational diabetes mellitus with a Diabetes Nurse Educator; and

2nd hour on importance of healthy eating and exercise in pregnancy with a Dietitian