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CARE OF PATIENTS WITH

ALTERED FUNCTIONS OF
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

Diabetes Mellitus

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Objectives
• Define diabetes mellitus.

• Describe the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus.

• State the 3 types of diabetes mellitus.

• Identify the causes of diabetes mellitus.

• Identify the signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus

• Identify the complications of diabetes mellitus.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Objectives
• Explain the common investigations used to diagnose
diabetes mellitus.

• Outline the medical management of patients with diabetes


mellitus.

• Outline 2 nursing process in the care of patients with


diabetes mellitus.

• Outline the health education plan for patients with diabetes


mellitus.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Definition of Diabetes Mellitus

A group of metabolic disorders characterized primarily by abnormal


glucose metabolism, with the key feature of elevated blood glucose.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Pathophysiology Of Diabetes Mellitus
• When the food you eat is digested, it is
broken down into Glucose.

• The beta cells in the Islets of


Langerhans in the pancreas, secretes
hormone called Insulin.

• In a normal person, insulin helps the


glucose to move from the bloodstream
into the cells, where it is used as
energy.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Pathophysiology Of Diabetes Mellitus
• In a person with diabetes, the body is
unable to effectively use the insulin
produced or the amount of insulin produced
by the pancreas is not enough for the
body’s needs.

• As a result, glucose cannot enter the cells


and remains in the bloodstream.

• This lead to an increase of glucose level in


the blood. A raise of blood glucose level is
known as Hyperglycaemia.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Types of Diabetes Mellitus

• Type 1 Diabetes • Type 2 Diabetes • Gestational Diabetes

https://www.t1international.com/type-1-diabetes/ https://www.webmd.boots.com/diabetes/ss/slideshow-type-2-diabetes-overview https://www.dietburrp.com/indian-diet-plan-for-


gestational-diabetes/

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Differences Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

TYPE 1 DM TYPE 2 DM
The beta cells in the pancreas unable The beta cells in the pancreas can
to produce insulin. No insulin still produce insulin but the amount
production. produced are not enough or the body
is unable to effectively use the
insulin.
Usually diagnosed in childhood or Usually diagnosed in adults over 40
adolescence. year of age.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Differences Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

TYPE 1 DM TYPE 2 DM
Not related with excess body Often related to excess body weight.
weight.

Sudden onset of signs & Gradual onset of signs & symptoms e.g.
symptoms e.g. weight loss, fatigue, polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia
polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and numbness or tingling sensation in
fatigue, presence of glucose and the hands and feet.
ketones in the urine.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Differences Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
TYPE 1 DM TYPE 2 DM
Totally dependent for May required either oral hypoglycaemic
subcutaneous insulin injection for medications or administer
survival. subcutaneous insulin injection to control
the blood glucose level.

Develop into metabolic acidosis Develop into Hyperosmolar


known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Hyperglycaemic Non-Ketotic State
(HHNKS).

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Differences Between Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

TYPE 1 DM TYPE 2 DM
Cannot be prevented as this is an It can be prevented or delayed with a
autoimmune disorder when the healthy lifestyle such as keeping to
body’s immune system destroys the healthy weight, doing exercises
beta cells in the pancreas. regularly and eating a well balanced
diet.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Causes of Diabetes Mellitus

• Hereditary.

• Pancreatic Disorder.

• Disorder of other endocrine glands e.g pituitary/ suprarenal


glands.

• Autoimmune disorder e.g. Insulin resistance.

• Pregnancy.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
Signs

• Urine analysis shows presence of glucose in urine

• Capillary blood glucose level > 10mmol/L

• Persistent itchiness around genital areas.

• Poor wound healing and/or infection.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
Symptoms

• Frequent urination (Polyuria)

• Excessive thirst (Polydipsia)

• Excessive hunger (Polyphagia)

• Extreme fatigue/ lethargy

• Feeling of nausea and/or vomiting.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms

• Blurred vision

• Unexplained weight loss despite eating a lot.

• Numbness or tingling sensation in arms and feet.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-illustration-diabetes-complications-affected-organs-
affects-nerves-kidneys-eyes-vessels-heart-skin-image62041410

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

Acute complications

• Hypoglycaemia

• Hyperglycaemia

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

• Hyperosmolar Non-Ketotic Hyperglycaemia

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

Chronic Complications

• Diabetic retinopathy.

• Diabetic nephropathy.

• Cardiovascular diseases.

• Peripheral vascular disease.

• Diabetic neuropathy.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Common Investigations

• Urine labstix test for glucose, ketone & protein

• Random blood glucose

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

• Fasting blood glucose

• Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Management for hyperglycaemia

 Inform doctor immediately if Blood Glucose Level (BGL) is high


(including ‘HI’ on glucometer).

 Administration of short-acting insulin (Intravenous or subcutaneous route)


as ordered by doctor.

 Blood specimen for urgent blood glucose maybe ordered.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

 Monitor Blood Glucose level every 15 mins as ordered by doctor.

 Continue to check blood glucose every 15 mins and provide appropriate


treatment with doctor’s advice until hyperglycaemia has resolved.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Management for hypoglycaemia

 Inform doctor immediately if Blood Glucose Level (BGL) is less than


4 mmol/L (including ‘LO’ on glucometer).

 Check and record vital signs, conscious level and SPO2.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Management for hypoglycaemia

If patient is alert and conscious:

 Serve glucose drink (mix 15gm of glucose powder in 100mls of water).

 Recheck blood glucose 15 mins later as ordered by doctor.

 If repeat blood glucose is still less than 4 mmoI/L or ‘LO’ on glucometer,


the doctor may order to repeat glucose drink or administer I/V Dextrose 10%.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Management for hypoglycaemia

If patient is unconscious, drowsy or NBM:

 Check and record vital signs, conscious level and SPO2. Inform doctor to
review patient immediately.

 The doctor will order I/V Dextrose 10% drip.

 Recheck blood glucose 15 mins.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Medical Management of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Management for hypoglycaemia

 If repeat blood glucose is still less than 4 mmoI/L or ‘LO’ on glucometer,


the doctor may administer I/V Dextrose 50% as bolus.

 Continue to check blood glucose every 15 mins and provide appropriate


treatment with doctor’s advice until hypoglycaemia has resolved.

 Withhold all insulin or oral hypoglycaemic medications until review by


doctor.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Nursing Diagnosis 1:
Non-compliance to medication related to knowledge deficit to the treatment
regimen.

Nursing Goal:
Patient will be able to verbalize and demonstrate knowledge of proper
insulin administration, identify signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia and
hyperglycaemia upon discharge.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Assess patient’s ability to understand the information and language spoken.

Rationale:
This assessment helps ensure information is presented in a manner that
patient understand.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Teach patient to check expiry date on the insulin vial and when to discard
after opening.

Rationale:
Insulin will lose its efficacy when is past the expiry date.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Teach patient on the proper storage of insulin.

Rationale:
Extreme temperature will make insulin lose its efficacy.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Teach patient how to accurately withdraw insulin from the vial using the
insulin syringe.

Rationale:
To ensure accurate dosage of insulin for administration.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Educate patient to rotate the injection sites. Explain that injection sites should be
at least 2 fingers spacing apart.

Rationale:
Injections at the same site may result in hardening of the skin (skin hypertrophy).

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Explain the importance of inserting the needle at 90 degree to the skin.

Rationale:
This ensures deep subcutaneous administration of insulin.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Educate patient and caregiver to recognize the signs and symptoms of
hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia.

Rationale:
Recognizing the signs and symptoms will allow patient and caregiver to
implement appropriate treatment and seek medical attention promptly.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Evaluation:
The patient will be able to perform administration of insulin and verbalize an
understanding the signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia
upon discharge.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Nursing Diagnosis 2:
Risk for impaired skin integrity on lower extremities related to altered
circulation and sensation.

Goal:
Patient will verbalize and demonstrate knowledge to take care of his/her
skin integrity upon discharge.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Inspect the feet daily for any open sores, blisters or skin infection.

Rationale:
Diabetic neuropathy can increased the risk of foot injury due to reduce in
sensation.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

Intervention:
Moisturise the feet to keep it moist and supple.

Rationale:
Dry skin is prone to skin breakdown and skin infection.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
Intervention:
Regular follow up for diabetic foot screening.

Rationale:
Early detection and interventions can help to prevent complications and
reduce risk of amputation.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Nursing Process in the Care of Patients With Diabetes
Mellitus

Evaluation:
Patient will be able to demonstrate knowledge to take care of his/her skin
integrity on lower extremities upon discharge.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Diet

 Exercise

 Medication compliance e.g Oral hypoglycaemic agents or S/C insulin

 Monitor blood glucose level

 Foot care

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Diet

• Keep to diet plan as advised by doctor or dietitian

• Select a variety of food such as fibre-rich carbohydrates such as brown


rice, wholemeal bread, vegetables, lean meat and fruit.

• Avoid adding sugar to your beverage and choose plain water as a


healthier drink.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Diet

• Choose healthier cooking methods (eg: Boiling, steaming, grilling &


roasting) are advised.

• Use natural herbs and spices to reduce the intake of salt.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Teaching Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Exercise

• Engage in exercises regularly.

• Take small steps and choose activity the patient enjoy.

• If patient is exercising right before the next meal, take a small snack
½ to 1 hour before exercise

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Teaching Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Exercise

Benefits:
• stimulates uptake of glucose by muscle cells.

• lower blood glucose level.

• increase insulin absorption.

• decrease cholesterol and triglycerides.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Medication Compliance
Oral hypoglycaemic agents (management of Type 2 DM unresponsive
to diet alone).

• Take medications on time and as advised.

• Do not take medications before exercising.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Medication Compliance

Insulin
• Types – short, intermediate, long-acting.

• Advise not to exercise immediately after injection.

• Take food 30 mins after injection.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Medication Compliance

• Always bring sweets and medical identification card when travelling out.

• Rotate injection sites to prevent skin hardening.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Monitor blood glucose level
• Check the blood glucose level
- before or 2 hours after meals.
- before and after exercise.
- when patient is sick or not eating well.
- when feeling giddy, very hungry, sweaty or confused.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Foot care

• Cleaning of feet

- Wash feet daily with mild soap and warm water. Do not soak feet in
very cold or very hot water.

- Dry feet well especially between the toes.

- Apply moisturizer daily to feet to keep the skin supple. Avoid applying
moisturizer between the toes.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Foot care

• Checking of feet

- Inspect feet daily, look for any cuts, swelling, blisters, sore, redness
or discharges between toes, heel and sole.

- Seek help or use a mirror, if patient has difficulty checking the sole.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

 Foot care
• Cutting of nails

- Cut the toenails straight across and do not trim too short to prevent
ingrown toenails.

- Do not cut down corners of the nail.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

 Foot care
• Cleaning of wound on the feet

- If there is a wound, clean the wound with normal saline and dry the area
carefully.

- Cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing.

- Inspect the wound daily and see doctor or podiatrist if wound is not heal
after 2 days.
ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022
Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

 Foot care

• Dealing with corns and calluses


- Do not use acid treatment or corn plasters.

- Do not attempt to use sharp instruments to remove the corns or


calluses.

- Seek medical attention from doctor or visit a podiatrist.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus

 Foot care
• Activity

- Avoid massage machine, foot reflexology, acupuncture and foot


massage walking path to minimize the chances of injury.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Foot care

• Footwear
- Never walk barefoot indoor or outdoor to protect the feet from injury.

- Wear comfortable and well fitted covered shoes to minimize cut or injury.

- Wear a pair of cotton socks or stockings with your shoes at all times to
minimize infection due to dampness.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Education Plan for Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus
 Foot care

 Footwear
• Never walk barefoot indoor or outdoor to protect the feet from injury.
• Wear comfortable and well fitted covered shoes to minimise cut or injury.
• Wear a pair of cotton socks or stockings with your shoes at all times to
minimise infection due to dampness.
• Do not wear open toe slippers or massage slippers.
• Always examine the inside of the shoes for stones or sharp objects that
might hurt the feet before wearing it.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


References

Health Promotion Board (2017). Living with diabetes. Easy steps to good
health. https://www.hpb.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-
library/living-with-diabetes-booklets---english.pdf?sfvrsn=6ecfed71_2

Tomaras, D. (2021). Nursing assessment and management of endocrine


health. In G. Koutoukidis & K. Stainton (Eds.), Tabbner’s nursing care:
Theory and Practice (8th ed. pp.1167-1180). Elsevier.

Ministry of Health (2014). Diabetes Mellitus. MOH Nursing Practice


Guidelines 1/2014. Singapore: Ministry of Health.

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022


Health Promotion Board (2017). Living with diabetes. Easy steps to good health.
https://www.hpb.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/living-with-diabetes-booklets---
english.pdf?sfvrsn=6ecfed71_2

ITE_CE_NR Patient Care B_HC3013FP Ver 7_Jan_2022

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