An adult patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is due to be admitted to the medical unit from the emergency department within the next hour. The patient’s lab results show that the serum glucose is 175 mg/dL (9.63 mmol/L) and the A1c is 9%. Which meal option should the nurse request for the patient’s dinner tray?

Choice A rationale Vegetarian lasagna with cheese and spinach, a tossed green salad with ranch dressing, and fresh fruit is a balanced meal. However, it may not be the best choice for a patient with type 2 diabetes due to the high carbohydrate content in the lasagna and the dressing. Choice B rationale Fried chicken breast, mashed potatoes, green beans, sliced tomatoes, and fresh apple pie is not the best choice for a patient with type 2 diabetes. Fried foods and mashed potatoes are high in carbohydrates and fats, which can raise blood sugar levels. Choice C rationale Grilled fish with whole-grain brown rice, steamed broccoli, and a pear poached in red wine is a good choice for a patient with type 2 diabetes. This meal is balanced with lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables, which can help control blood sugar levels. Choice D rationale Lean hamburger with cheese, tomato, and lettuce on a whole-wheat bun, and angel food cake is not the best choice for a patient with type 2 diabetes. Although the hamburger is lean, the whole-wheat bun and angel food cake are high in carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar levels.