Final answer:
Patients starting repaglinide therapy should be instructed to carry a source of sugar to treat potential hypoglycemic episodes. They should recognize symptoms like hunger and shakiness, monitor glucose levels, and maintain a regular eating schedule. Lifestyle changes can further enhance the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Step-by-step explanation:
When talking with a patient who is about to begin repaglinide (Prandin) therapy to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, the healthcare professional should instruct the patient to carry a source of sugar, such as candy or glucose tablets, to treat episodes of hypoglycemia that can occur with the use of sulfonylureas like repaglinide. Sulfonylureas work by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, improving the uptake and use of glucose by the tissues. However, this increased insulin can cause blood glucose levels to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia, just as Arya experienced after taking gliclazide, another type of sulfonylurea.
It is important for patients to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include feelings of hunger, sweating, shakiness, and weakness, and to act quickly by consuming a fast-acting source of sugar. Additionally, patients should be advised to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly and maintain a consistent eating schedule, with several smaller meals throughout the day to help keep their energy, blood glucose, and insulin levels stable. Incorporating lifestyle changes such as moderate weight loss, regular physical activity, and consumption of a healthful diet can also help manage type 2 diabetes and increase insulin sensitivity.