Infections and diabetes: what nurses need to know

Infections in people with diabetes are both more frequent and more severe than in people without diabetes. This article examines the reasons why this is the case, and reviews common infections associated with diabetes and how they might affect glycaemic control. An overview of infection management and prevention in people with diabetes is covered.

The impact of diabetes on infection

Compared to the non-diabetic population, people with diabetes have an overall 2-4 fold greater risk of infection.¹ This increased risk has been demonstrated in a primary care cohort.² The severity of infection, including hospitalisation and mortality is greater in those with both type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM).^3,4