A diabetes educator is teaching a patient about type 2 diabetes. The educator recognizes that the patient understands the primary treatment for type 2 diabetes when the patient states what?

A. Management of diabetic ketoacidosis:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar, ketones in the urine, and metabolic acidosis. While it's crucial to understand how to manage DKA, this may be considered more advanced knowledge and may not be categorized as a basic survival skill for someone newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

B. Signs and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy:
Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication that involves damage to the nerves due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. While understanding neuropathy is important for long-term health, it may not be the first topic addressed as a basic survival skill for someone newly diagnosed.

C. Effects of surgery and pregnancy on blood sugar levels:
Understanding how surgery and pregnancy can affect blood sugar levels is important for managing diabetes in specific situations. However, this knowledge might be considered more advanced and may not be the initial focus for someone just starting to learn about diabetes self-care.

D. Recognition of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia:
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of both low and high blood sugar is essential for immediate self-care. This includes understanding when blood sugar is too low (hypoglycemia) and requires prompt treatment, as well as recognizing the symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and knowing how to address them. This knowledge is fundamental for the daily management and well-being of someone with diabetes.

A. Urinalysis shows trace protein:
Explanation: While trace protein in the urine is generally better than higher levels, it doesn't provide a specific measure of blood glucose control. Protein in the urine can be an early sign of kidney damage in diabetes, but it doesn't directly indicate blood glucose control.

B. Hemoglobin A1C of 5.6%:
Explanation: Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) is a long-term indicator of blood glucose control. An HbA1C level of 5.6% is within the target range for individuals with diabetes and suggests good control of blood glucose over the past 2-3 months.

C. Fasting blood glucose of 110 mg/dL:
Explanation: Fasting blood glucose gives a snapshot of blood glucose at a specific moment. While 110 mg/dL is a fairly normal fasting level, it doesn't provide information about long-term control. A single fasting glucose measurement may not reflect overall glucose management.

D. Urine ketones are negative:
Explanation: Negative urine ketones indicate that the body is not currently using fat for energy. While this is a good sign in the moment, it doesn't give information about overall blood glucose control over time. Urine ketones can fluctuate based on various factors, including diet and activity level.