A patient who has a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus says, "I am worried because my feet are swollen. You don't think my diabetes is getting worse, do you?" The nurse identifies that the patient is hypertensive and has albuminuria. These findings would help substantiate which priority nursing diagnosis?

Question

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Swollen feet in a patient with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and albuminuria can be a sign of excess fluid volume related to the compromised regulatory mechanisms. This is a priority nursing diagnosis as it can lead to further complications such as edema, impaired circulation, and increased blood pressure. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers may be prescribed to improve fluid balance by decreasing blood pressure and reducing albuminuria.

A Patient Who Has a Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Says