Nursing Interventions: Diabetes Mellitus

1. Administer insulin or an oral antidiabetic drug as prescribed.
2. Have the patient participate in a supervised exercise program.
3. Treat hypoglycemic reactions promptly by giving carbohydrates in the form of fruit juice, hard candy, honey or I.V. dextrose.
4. Provide meticulous skin care, especially to the feet and legs.
5. Assist the patient to develop coping strategies.
6. Keep accurate records of vital signs, weight, fluid intake, urine output, and caloric intake.
7. Monitor diabetic effects on the cardiovascular, peripheral vascular, and nervous systems.
8. Observe for signs of urinary tract and vaginal infections, and monitor the patient’s urine for protein, an early sign of nephropathy.
9. Recommend regular ophthalmologic examinations.
10. Teach the patient how to care for his feet.
11. Teach the patient and the family how to monitor the patient’s diet.