Nursing
Nursing Care Plan for Diabetes Mellitus 2026 — Free NCP Template
May 30, 2026
Diabetes Mellitus Overview
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin production (type 1) or insulin resistance (type 2). It affects millions of Americans and is one of the most commonly tested conditions on the NCLEX.
Nursing Assessment for Diabetes
Subjective data: Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, numbness or tingling in feet, history of diabetes, insulin or oral hypoglycemic use.
Objective data: Blood glucose levels (normal fasting 70-110 mg/dL), HbA1c (target below 7%), weight, BMI, foot inspection, peripheral sensation testing, lab results (BMP, lipid panel, microalbumin).
Nursing Diagnoses for Diabetes
- Unstable blood glucose level related to insufficient insulin, dietary nonadherence
- Risk for infection related to impaired immune function and poor wound healing
- Risk for peripheral neurovascular dysfunction related to diabetic neuropathy
- Deficient knowledge related to diabetes management, diet, and medication
Nursing Interventions
- Monitor blood glucose as ordered — before meals and at bedtime
- Administer insulin or oral hypoglycemics as ordered — know onset, peak, duration
- Treat hypoglycemia — below 70 mg/dL: give 15g fast-acting carbohydrates, recheck in 15 minutes
- Perform thorough foot assessment daily — inspect for wounds, calluses, color changes
- Teach carbohydrate counting and diabetic diet
- Educate on sick day management and when to seek emergency care
Expected Outcomes
- Patient will maintain blood glucose 80-180 mg/dL during hospitalization
- Patient will demonstrate correct insulin administration technique before discharge
- Patient will verbalize signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia
Find free diabetes nursing care plan examples at studyrift.com/documents.