The nurse is teaching a patient recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) about the disease. What information should the nurse include?

C. Good control of blood glucose levels and blood pressure is essential in reducing the risk of diabetic retinopathy and its progression. Research has shown that maintaining tight glycemic control and managing hypertension can significantly decrease the likelihood and severity of retinopathy in patients with diabetes.

A. Laser surgery is a treatment option for certain complications of diabetic retinopathy, such as retinal hemorrhage or retinal detachment. However, it's essential to emphasize that prevention through good glycemic control and regular eye exams is key to reducing the risk of these complications, rather than relying solely on surgical interventions after they occur.
B. Cataracts are more common in individuals with diabetes and can be surgically corrected but this statement does not directly address the concern about retinopathy. Cataracts and retinopathy are separate ocular complications of diabetes, each requiring different management strategies.
D. Diabetes remains one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States, primarily due to its association with diabetic retinopathy. While advancements in diabetes management and eye care have helped reduce the incidence of blindness, it is still a significant concern for individuals with diabetes.

C. Medical nutrition therapy for diabetes involves creating a well-balanced, individualized meal plan that meets the patient's nutritional needs while helping to manage blood glucose levels. This approach can be healthy for the entire family and does not require separate meals or special foods. It promotes overall healthy eating habits that everyone can benefit from.
A. Low-carbohydrate diets may be considered for some patients but the emphasis of a diabetic diet is not necessarily on high-protein intake. Instead, the focus is on balanced meals that include appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
B. People with diabetes do not require special foods; rather, they need to make healthier choices from the foods available. The emphasis is on a balanced diet that can include regular foods, with modifications to portion sizes and meal timing to manage blood glucose levels effectively.
D. It is not necessary to completely avoid sugars and fats; rather, the focus should be on moderating intake and choosing healthier options. For example, limiting added sugars and unhealthy fats (like trans fats and saturated fats) is important, but healthy fats (such as those from nuts, seeds, and avocados) can be part of a balanced diet.