Care of a Patient with Diabetes

These flashcards cover essential concepts, definitions, symptoms, management strategies, and educational points related to patient care for diabetes as discussed during the lecture.

What are the primary types of diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, Gestational diabetes, Prediabetes, Diabetes associated with other conditions or syndromes.

What is the estimated number of people with diabetes in the U.S.?

Approximately 37 million people.

What percentage of American adults have prediabetes?

More than 1 in 3 adults, or 96 million.

What is the primary concept in diabetes care?

Glucose Regulation.

What is the normal range for blood glucose levels?

70-110 mg/dL.

What is the relationship between glucose and insulin?

Insulin helps lower blood glucose levels by facilitating glucose uptake in body cells.

What are common clinical manifestations of diabetes?

Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, dehydration, weight loss, fatigue, weakness.

What is the A1C level diagnostic for diabetes?

A level of 6.5% or higher.

What dietary recommendations are made for diabetes management?

A balanced diet, limiting saturated fats, and focusing on non-starchy vegetables and whole grains.

What is prediabetes?

A condition where glucose levels are elevated but not high enough to diagnose diabetes.

What factors contribute to Type 2 diabetes?

Insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion.

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Sweating, shaking, confusion, irritability, and potential loss of consciousness.

What is the treatment for hypoglycemia according to the rule of 15?

Consume 15 g of a concentrated carbohydrate and recheck glucose in 15 minutes.

What can cause diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Absence or insufficient insulin leading to abnormal metabolism.

What is the main management strategy during episodes of illness for diabetes patients?

Continue insulin or oral antidiabetic agents; monitor blood glucose and urine ketones.

What are some major complications associated with diabetes?

Peripheral neuropathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic foot, heart attack, and stroke.

Define diabetic foot complications.

Conditions including ulcers and infections resulting from poor blood sugar control.

What medications are commonly used for Type 2 diabetes management?

Biguanides (e.g. Metformin), GLP-1 agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors.

How does exercise affect diabetes management?

Improvements in insulin utilization, cholesterol levels, and reduced cardiovascular disease risk.

What is the significance of fluid balance in diabetic management?

It is crucial to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte levels.

What should be included in the assessment for patients with diabetes?

History, risk factors, symptoms, and laboratory assessments like A1C and fasting blood glucose.

How should insulin administration be timed in relation to meals?

Rapid-acting insulins should be administered 15 minutes before meals.

What is a primary focus of health promotion for diabetes patients?

Control of diabetes and prevention of complications.

What are the microvascular complications of diabetes?

Retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy.

What is an effective way to monitor blood glucose?

Self-monitoring via fingerstick testing or continuous monitoring systems.

What role does patient education play in diabetes care?

Educating about insulin use, management of blood glucose, and recognizing symptoms of hypo/hyperglycemia.

Why is identifying symptoms of hypoglycemia critical?

It can prevent severe complications, including loss of consciousness and seizures.

What is the importance of glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) in diabetes management?

It provides an average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months.

What types of insulin are used for patients with diabetes?

Rapid acting, short acting, intermediate acting, and long acting insulins.

What are common acute complications of uncontrolled diabetes?

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS).

What lab results indicate prediabetes?

Fasting plasma glucose levels of 100-125 mg/dL.

What is a major consequence of untreated chronic diabetic conditions?

Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.

How can carbohydrate intake be managed for individuals with diabetes?

A minimum of 130 g/day focusing on healthy sources.

What should patients do if they experience high blood glucose during illness?

Monitor more frequently and possibly administer supplemental insulin as necessary.

What is Kussmaul respiration?

Deep, labored breathing often seen with metabolic acidosis such as in DKA.

What are some nursing management strategies for patients in a hospital setting?

Monitor glycemic levels, educate on self-care, and prevent hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia.

Why is hydration vital in managing diabetic ketoacidosis?

It helps restore fluid volume and correct electrolyte imbalances.

Define the importance of carbohydrate counting in diabetes management.

It helps regulate blood glucose levels by matching insulin administration to carbohydrate intake.

What is the role of the pancreas in glucose regulation?

It secretes insulin and glucagon to maintain blood glucose homeostasis.

What lifestyle changes can aid in managing diabetes effectively?

Balanced diet, regular physical activity, weight management.