Endocrine Abstracts

We adapted holistic needs assessment tool used in oncology setting to create a simple tool to assess the learning need of people with adrenal insufficiency. This simple tool consists of 17 items and it allows endocrine nurse educators to obtain a quick assessment on the self-care management knowledge and skill of people with adrenal insufficiency before embarking on adrenal education.

The tool 17 items are:

Understanding of adrenal insufficiency

Recognising adrenal crisis

Awareness of support groups (for emotional and psychological needs)

Oral medication dosing

Hydrocortisone knowledge

Hydrocortisone injection

Effects of over replacement

Effects of under replacement

Sick Days Rules

Long term effects of replacement

Alcohol

Exercise & activity

Traveling

Relationship and intimacy

Planning pregnancy

Education course available.

We also collected over 30+ data from cohorts attended our clinics and ADSHG members attending our adrenal education training. These data consist of both people with adrenal insufficiency and their friends and carers. This also allow endocrine nurse educator to tailor their education priorities as well as planning the subsequent follow up training required for people with AI.

Conclusion: A simple tool to use in clinic setting to obtain a quick assessment on the learning needs of people with AI and their carer.