The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus who uses both short-acting and long-acting insulin adjusted doses throughout the day. Which nutrient is essential for the client to count for each meal and snacks?

Choice A

Counting carbohydrates will ensure glucose levels stay within a normal range is accurate. When providing dietary education to a client with Type 2 diabetes mellitus, it's important to emphasize the role of carbohydrate counting in managing blood glucose levels. Carbohydrate intake significantly impacts blood sugar levels, and counting carbohydrates can help the client make informed decisions about their meals and medications to maintain glucose levels within a normal range.

Choice B

Many carbohydrates are found in starches and fruits is not accurate. Carbohydrates are present in a variety of foods, including starches (such as bread, rice, and pasta) but not fruits. Educating the client about sources of carbohydrates can help them make choices that support blood sugar management.

Choice C

It is best to count carbohydrates when it feels like blood glucose is low is not accurate. Counting carbohydrates is an ongoing practice that helps individuals with diabetes maintain consistent blood sugar levels throughout the day, not just when blood glucose feels low.

Choice D

Examples of complex carbohydrates are white rice and cereals is inaccurate. White rice and many cereals are actually exampling of simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates include foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables. It's important to provide accurate information about carbohydrate types.

Choice A

Serum HDL (high-density lipoprotein) of 35 mg/dL (0.91 mmol/L). Among the options provided, a serum HDL level of 35 mg/dL (0.91 mmol/L) is the assessment data that indicates the need for referral to a nutritionist. HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. In this case, the HDL level of 35 mg/dL is below the recommended reference range for females (greater than 55 mg/dL or greater than 0.91 mmol/L), which could suggest a potential need for dietary and lifestyle interventions to improve cardiovascular health.

Choice B

Serum HbA1c (glycosylated haemoglobin) of 4.8% (0.05) is incorrect. This HbA1c level is within the normal reference range (4% to 5.9%) and indicates good blood sugar control.

Choice C

BMI (body mass index) of 22 kg/m² is incorrect. A BMI of 22 is within the normal weight range and might not necessarily indicate the need for a nutritionist referral.

Choice D

Total serum calcium of 10 mg/dL (2.5 mmol/L) is incorrect. This calcium level is within the normal reference range and might not require a nutritionist referral, unless there are other specific concerns related to calcium intake.