A nurse is teaching an older adult client who has diabetes mellitus about preventing the tong-term complications of retinopathy and nephropathy. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Rationale: A. Wear compression stockings daily: Compression stockings are helpful for venous insufficiency or preventing deep vein thrombosis, but they do not prevent complications such as retinopathy and nephropathy, which are directly related to vascular changes B. Maintain stable blood glucose levels: Chronic hyperglycemia damages small blood vessels, leading to microvascular complications including retinopathy and nephropathy. Maintaining stable blood glucose levels slows disease progression and is the most effective preventive strategy. C. Have an eye examination once per year: Annual eye exams are important for early detection of diabetic retinopathy but do not directly prevent its development. Preventive measures must focus on glucose control to minimize vascular injury before it occurs. D. Examine your feet carefully every day: Daily foot inspection is essential for preventing peripheral neuropathy complications such as ulcers and infections. However, this practice is not directly related to preventing retinopathy or nephropathy.