Chapter 31: Diabetes

An OT is working with a 10-year-old recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. What is the MOST appropriate initial focus for intervention?

• Educating the child on potential complications like neuropathy

• Establishing a peer support group for children with diabetes

• Developing a routine for glucose monitoring and insulin administration

• Instructing the child in meal planning for independent cooking

A client with Type 2 diabetes reports numbness and tingling in their feet. What should the OT address FIRST?

• Energy conservation strategies

• Routine foot inspection education

• Meal preparation modifications

• Strengthening exercises for lower extremities

During a home evaluation, a client with diabetes shows signs of hypoglycemia. What is the OT’s BEST immediate response?

• Offer a quick source of sugar like juice or glucose tablets

• Encourage continued activity to avoid sleepiness

• Have the client sit down and administer insulin

• Call 911 and wait for emergency services

An OT working with a client newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes should prioritize which of the following?

• Implementing aerobic exercise 5 days a week

• Teaching the client how to manage their insulin pump

• Supporting lifestyle modifications and routine development

• Fitting the client for diabetic shoes

Which client statement reflects a need for further OT education?

• I check my blood sugar every morning before breakfast.

• I walk my dog after dinner every day.

• I keep crackers in my bag just in case I feel shaky.

• I often skip meals to keep my weight down.

An OT is planning a health promotion program for prediabetic clients. What activity is MOST appropriate?

• Diabetic shoe fitting and skin inspection workshop

• Instruction on safe foot care after ulcer development

• Training on glucometer use and insulin storage

• Meal prep simulation with discussion on portion sizes

What OT intervention is MOST effective for a client with diabetic retinopathy experiencing difficulty in meal preparation?

• Use of contrast-enhanced labels and tactile indicators

• Fatigue management through pacing and rest breaks

• Cognitive retraining with functional tasks

• Balance training during functional mobility

Which strategy BEST supports self-management in a middle-aged adult with fluctuating glucose levels and a busy work schedule?

• Daily phone check-ins from the OT

• Tracking glucose and symptoms using a mobile app

• Training the client's spouse in all aspects of care

• Weekly group therapy sessions

An OT evaluates a client with Type 2 diabetes who reports low energy and poor adherence to medication. What should the OT address FIRST?

• Coping skills and emotional regulation

• Neuropathy-related ADL limitations

• Daily routine and role disruption

• Diabetic shoe use and inspection habits

Which OT goal is MOST appropriate for a 70-year-old with diabetic neuropathy and fall risk?

• Client will independently manage insulin dosing

• Client will identify and remove home tripping hazards

• Client will memorize signs of hypoglycemia

• Client will perform yoga 3 times weekly