Introduction - For numerous years the knowledge of health professionals on their understanding of diabetes has been examined. The majority of studies conclude nursing staffs’ knowledge on diabetes care is poor and there is a need for additional education and support to improve diabetes care (1). Generally research has been conducted in the hospital setting however not all care for people with diabetes is provided in hospital. Therefore this study was established to explore the diabetes knowledge of nurses who deliver nursing care in the community.

Aim– The aim of this study was to determine community nurses’ baseline knowledge and understanding of diabetes management.

Methodology –A quantitative methodology was used for this study. Data was collected using Survey Monkey with a modified version of the validated Brief Diabetes Knowledge Test (2) used along with open ended questions. Demographic data of the nurses was also collected including recent hours of diabetes education undertaken. Data was analysed within Survey monkey and open ended questions analysed thematically.

Participants - A total of 67 nursing staff (n=67/290) participated in the study including eleven Enrolled Nurses (ENs) (n=11), thirty seven  Level 1 Registered Nurses (RNs) (n=37) and RNs in supervisory higher level roles; fifteen Level 2 (n=15) and four Level 3 (n=4).

Findings –The main findings indicate 49% of participants don’t understand DKA symptoms, 33% didn’t know the correct way to treat hypoglycaemia and 22% couldn’t correctly identify the cause of a hypo. Nursing staff indicated the tasks of diabetes management, following diabetes care plans and ‘compliant’ clients are easy while  managing unstable diabetes, people with Type 1 Diabetes and ‘non compliant’ clients was difficult.

 Conclusion This study found diabetes knowledge of community nurses needs improvement and additionally the understanding of the psychosocial aspects of diabetes is required to improve understanding of the needs of people living with diabetes. As a result an education program was developed to provide support for nursing staff to increase their understanding of diabetes management.