Which of the following should be included in the teaching plan for a patient receiving glargine (Lantus), "peakless" basal insulin?

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. Increase the intake of vitamin E to enhance absorption:
While vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, vitamin E does not play a significant role in iron absorption. Vitamin C-rich foods can be advised to enhance iron absorption.

B. Iron will cause the stools to darken in color:
This statement is accurate. Iron supplements can cause stools to appear darker in color, often black or greenish-black. This change in stool color is normal and expected when taking iron supplements.

C. Take the iron with dairy products to enhance absorption:
Dairy products can inhibit iron absorption. It's better to take iron supplements with vitamin C-rich foods or orange juice to enhance absorption.

D. Limit foods high in fiber due to the risk for diarrhea:
Fiber-rich foods do not necessarily need to be limited when taking iron supplements. However, some individuals may experience constipation when taking iron supplements, in which case increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber can help alleviate constipation.