A nurse is providing diabetic teaching for a family of a client newly diagnosed with diabetes. The nurse determines that the family understands the reason for having glucagon on hand for emergency home use if the family indicates that the purpose of the medication is to treat:

Choice A rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia (glucose > 250 mg/dL), ketonemia, and metabolic acidosis. It typically occurs in type 1 diabetes when there is an absolute insulin deficiency, leading to increased lipolysis and ketone body production. DKA is not associated with low blood glucose levels.
Choice B rationale: Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication of diabetes resulting from sustained hyperglycemia, which damages nerves throughout the body. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. This condition is a chronic effect of poor glucose control and is not an acute state caused by a sudden drop in glucose levels.
Choice C rationale: Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) is a serious complication, predominantly in type 2 diabetes, marked by extremely high blood glucose levels (typically > 600 mg/dL), severe dehydration, and hyperosmolarity without significant ketosis. This condition is the opposite of what the client is experiencing, as it involves very high, not low, glucose levels.
Choice D rationale: Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally low blood glucose levels, specifically below 70 mg/dL. This occurs when there is an imbalance between insulin action and glucose intake, such as too much insulin, skipped meals, or intense exercise. The brain relies on glucose for energy, and its function is compromised in hypoglycemia, leading to symptoms like confusion, shakiness, and sweating.

Choice A rationale: For a young adult with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus, annual eye examinations by an ophthalmologist are recommended starting five years after the diagnosis. The risk of diabetic retinopathy, a microvascular complication, increases over time with chronic hyperglycemia. Therefore, maintaining a regular schedule for eye exams is crucial for early detection and management of vision changes.
Choice B rationale: This statement is incorrect as it suggests waiting for a vision problem to develop or until a later age. Regular, proactive screening is essential for managing diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy often progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, so waiting for a change in vision can lead to delayed treatment and more significant damage.
Choice C rationale: This statement is inaccurate because while vision can be affected, it does not necessarily change quickly in the early stages. The recommendation for annual or even more frequent exams is based on the duration of diabetes and the presence of any complications, not an assumption of rapid change. For a newly diagnosed client, the standard is annual exams after a few years.
Choice D rationale: This statement is dangerously incorrect. Chronic hyperglycemia is a major risk factor for several eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. All clients with diabetes, regardless of age or how well-controlled their blood sugar is, are at risk for these complications and require regular, scheduled eye examinations to monitor for early signs of damage.