The nurse is discussing microvascular complications of diabetes with a patient. What topics will the nurse include in the discussion?

Choice A reason: Foot ulcers and delayed wound healing are related to diabetes but are considered macrovascular complications. Microvascular complications specifically refer to damage to small blood vessels.

Choice B reason: Stroke prevention and cardiac health are important but are related to macrovascular complications of diabetes. The focus here is on microvascular complications.

Choice C reason: Retinopathy and nephropathy are microvascular complications of diabetes. These conditions result from damage to small blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys, respectively. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss, while diabetic nephropathy can lead to kidney failure. It is important to monitor for these complications and manage blood glucose levels to prevent or slow their progression.

Choice D reason: Hypertension management and cholesterol control are important for overall cardiovascular health but are related to macrovascular complications. The discussion should focus on microvascular complications specific to diabetes.

Choice A reason: Eating any foods before dialysis as long as fluid intake is limited is incorrect. Patients undergoing hemodialysis need to follow specific dietary restrictions to manage electrolyte balance and prevent complications. A renal diet typically limits potassium, phosphorus, and sodium intake, in addition to fluid restrictions.

Choice B reason: Reporting any unusual changes in the access site, like redness or swelling, is correct. Changes at the access site can indicate infection or other complications and require immediate attention.

Choice C reason: Checking blood pressure regularly to monitor for changes during dialysis is correct. Blood pressure monitoring is essential during dialysis to detect hypotension or hypertension and adjust treatment accordingly.

Choice D reason: Contacting the healthcare provider if swelling in hands, feet, or ankles is noticed is correct. Swelling can indicate fluid overload or other complications that need to be addressed.

Choice E reason: Understanding that hemodialysis will permanently cure kidney disease is incorrect. Hemodialysis is a treatment that replaces kidney function but does not cure kidney disease. It manages symptoms and removes waste products from the blood.