Instructed patient about possible causes of hypoglycemia such as too much insulin, not enough food, and overexertion or GI disturbance.
Instructed patient on possible causes of hyperglycemia such as too little insulin, too much or the wrong kind of food, infection, injury, illness, decreased activity.
Instructed patient about proper storage and disposal of equipment: checking expiration date, keeping spare bottle in refrigerator, not changing the brand, match syringe type.
Instructed patient on how to properly use testing strips: wash hands with lukewarm water and mild soap, stick side of finger (not the tip), dry finger well before procedure, change fingers every test, and use the thinnest lancet, as that will give you the best drop of blood.
Instructed patient on the use of home glucose monitor to ensure accuracy of results.
Instructed patient about basic tips to help prevent infections in people with diabetes: wear shoes or slippers at all times, wear comfortable shoes; get used to new shoes slowly and always wear 'heavy' soft cotton socks.
Instructed patient to keep feet dry, especially between toes, to use lotion to keep skin soft and moist and to keep feet clean. Wash daily with lukewarm water.
Instructed patient to cut toenails straight across. This will help to avoid ingrown toenails. Also instructed to avoid letting somebody else to cut the toenails.
Instructed patient to never go barefoot or wear thigh garters. Do not wear thigh worn boots for long periods of times. Never let feet get dry and cracked, severe infections may develop. Do not use hot water pads, iodine, hot water bottles or rubbing alcohol. Never use razors, knives or corn remedies.
Instructed patient to wash feet daily and dry them carefully, especially between toes.
