2 Diabetes Mellitus and Nursing Care Free Online FlashCards

What causes blood glucose to remain elevated in diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a group of conditions in which blood glucose remains elevated because the body produces too little insulin, cannot use it effectively, or both.

Why is insulin essential in type 1 diabetes?

Immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic beta cells results in little or no insulin production. Insulin replacement is essential for survival.

What period does an A1C estimate?

A1C estimates average glucose over roughly the prior $2\text{–}3$ months.

What glucose level is an alert value for hypoglycemia?

A glucose level below $70\,\mathrm{mg/dL}$ is an alert value for hypoglycemia.

How do basal, prandial, and correction insulin differ?

Basal insulin covers glucose needs between meals and overnight; prandial insulin covers food-related glucose rises; correction insulin addresses glucose above a prescribed target when included in the plan.

What should a person with type 1 diabetes know about basal insulin during illness?

A person with type 1 diabetes should not stop basal insulin during illness without clinical direction.

Why are daily foot checks important in diabetes?

Neuropathy and poor circulation can make foot injuries go unnoticed and contribute to ulcers. Daily foot inspection and prompt reporting of wounds or skin changes support early care.

What practical barriers should nurses assess in diabetes care?

Assess the person’s vision, dexterity, health literacy, food access, medication affordability, and support at home to identify barriers to carrying out the care plan.

What is gestational diabetes, and what risk can remain after birth?

Gestational diabetes is first diagnosed during pregnancy. It often resolves after birth, but increases future risk of type 2 diabetes.

What is the usual CGM time-in-range band for many adults?

For many adults, the usual CGM time-in-range band is $70\text{–}180\,\mathrm{mg/dL}$; targets should be individualized.

How should an awake person who can swallow be treated for hypoglycemia?

Give $15\,\mathrm{g}$ of fast-acting carbohydrate, recheck in $15$ minutes, and repeat if glucose is still low.

What should you do if a person with hypoglycemia cannot swallow safely?

Do not give food or drink by mouth. Use prescribed glucagon if available and activate emergency help.