diabetes
Diseases Process
Instructed patient on the use of home glucose monitor to ensure accuracy of results.
Instructed patient about basic tips to help prevent infections in people with diabetes: wear shoes or slippers at all times, wear comfortable shoes; get used to new shoes slowly and always wear 'heavy' soft cotton socks.
Instructed patient about the importance of avoiding getting sick. Seasonal viruses such as common cold, flu and other illnesses may cause DM episodes to increase in frequency and severity.
Instructed patient to contact doctor if any of the following occur: an illness lasting one or two days without improvement; vomiting/diarrhea that continue longer than 6 hours, blood tests that continue to run higher that 240 after taking medications, S/S of high blood sugar.
Instructed patient to avoid alcohol consumption while taking DM medications as it may cause dangerous reactions.
Instructed patient on monitoring DM, for example: testing blood sugar levels at least 3 times a day.
Instructed patient to talk to MD regarding on how to drink alcohol safely, once in a while.
Instructed patient on how to identify the first signs of infections.
Instructed patient about the management of infections: bathing everyday with a mild soap and lukewarm water, applying lotion to keep skin moist, wearing gloves when working outside, always wearing shoes and treating injuries promptly by cleaning with soap and water.
Instructed patient on the steps to follow to prevent a heart attack or stroke by: maintaining proper cholesterol and triglyceride levels, exercise regularly, proper diet, keeping all MD appointments.