Course: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)
Unit: Medical–Surgical Nursing / Adult Health Nursing
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction to Diabetes Mellitus
2. Historical Background and Epidemiology
3. Definition and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
4. Normal Glucose Metabolism
5. Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus
o Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
o Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
o Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
o Other Specific Types of Diabetes
6. Risk Factors and Predisposing Factors
7. Clinical Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus
8. Diagnostic Criteria and Investigations
9. Acute Complications of Diabetes Mellitus
o Hypoglycemia
o Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
o Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS)
10.Chronic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus
o Microvascular Complications
o Macrovascular Complications
,11.Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Adults
12.Non-Pharmacological Management
o Nutritional Therapy
o Physical Activity and Exercise
o Lifestyle Modification
13.Pharmacological Management
o Insulin Therapy
o Oral Hypoglycemic Agents
o Injectable Non-Insulin Agents
14.Monitoring and Evaluation of Diabetic Patients
15.Nursing Process in Diabetes Management
16.Patient Education and Self-Management
17.Psychosocial Aspects of Diabetes Mellitus
18.Diabetes Mellitus in Special Populations
19.Prevention of Diabetes Mellitus
20.Role of the Nurse in Diabetes Care
21.Case Studies and Clinical Scenarios
22.Conclusion
23.References
, 1. INTRODUCTION TO DIABETES MELLITUS
Exam-focused definition
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by
persistent hyperglycemia due to defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or
both, resulting in disturbances in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and
proteins.
Exam tip: Always include hyperglycemia + insulin defect + metabolic
disturbance in your definition.
Background
Diabetes Mellitus is among the leading non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and reduced
quality of life. In adults, diabetes commonly presents as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus,
although Type 1 may persist into adulthood.
The condition requires lifelong management, involving pharmacological and non-
pharmacological measures. Nurses play a critical role in assessment,
implementation of care, patient education, monitoring, and prevention of
complications.