Final answer:
To prevent complications associated with diabetes, a nurse should emphasize the importance of C. controlling hyperglycemia to a newly diagnosed patient. Blood glucose management through diet, exercise, medication, and sometimes insulin injections is essential for delaying microvascular and macrovascular complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
To delay the onset of microvascular and macrovascular complications in a client who has been newly diagnosed with diabetes, the nurse should stress the importance of C. controlling hyperglycemia.
We know that diabetes is characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia), which can lead to serious health issues including heart disease, kidney failure, and loss of eyesight.
Controlling blood glucose levels is crucial and can be achieved through lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, regular physical activity, possibly medication, and, for some, insulin injections.
It is also important to note that while preventing ketosis and hypoglycemia are also valid concerns in the management of diabetes, the primary focus for delaying complications relates to consistently managing and controlling blood glucose levels.
In some cases, insulin injections may be used to reduce blood glucose levels after high-glucose meals, and this can help to maintain blood glucose within a normal range.
A comprehensive management plan, including diet, exercise, and monitoring of blood glucose, as well as medication or insulin therapy when necessary, can effectively delay or prevent the complications associated with diabetes.
This illustrates the importance of a holistic approach to diabetes management, addressing not just immediate symptoms, but also the ongoing control of blood glucose levels.