David has had diabetes and high blood pressure for a number of years and through much of this time he did not have good control of either of these health conditions. However, he was not overly concerned as he felt fine. When RDPCN staff was looking for suitable candidates from his doctor’s clinic for the Home Health Monitoring program, they asked if he would participate. Although it is unusual for him to volunteer for anything he did agree to this.
David had a visit with the nurse to get all the base data and learn about the program. He soon received a call back to say that his heart rhythm was very slow. He ended up seeing a cardiologist and being diagnosed with heart flutter. He is under observation to decide on future treatment as he makes lifestyle changes. He may not of learned about this issue if he had not volunteered.
Being part of the 3-month monitoring project has helped David to improve how he looks after himself. He has lost 40 pounds. He has significantly decreased his snacking and improved his eating. His medications have decreased. His blood glucose has gone from very high to well within the normal range. His blood pressure is significantly improved. He walks more than 100 minutes almost every day and thoroughly enjoys that. He says the walking is key to keeping him on track. His three months on the program ended near the end of December but he has continued all of the monitoring himself as he says “It keeps me honest. The program has helped me realize the importance of looking after myself. ”
He is very thankful that the RDPCN nurse approached him to be part of the Home Health Monitoring program and that he took the risk of volunteering. He is way healthier now!