The nurse should teach the client to monitor for which complication of diabetic neuropathy?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes, specifically the retina and can lead to vision loss. It is not directly associated with diabetic neuropathy, which affects the nerves. B. Kidney failure: Kidney failure can result from diabetic nephropathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the kidneys, but it is not the primary concern of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy primarily affects the nerves, especially in the extremities. C. Undetected foot injury: Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness and reduced sensation in the feet, making it difficult for the patient to feel foot injuries. This can lead to undetected foot injuries, which can become infected and lead to serious complications like ulcers or even amputation. D. Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) can be a complication of diabetes and contribute to cardiovascular disease, but it is not a direct result of diabetic neuropathy. Neuropathy primarily affects the nerves, not the blood vessels.