A 56-Year-Old Patient Is Hospitalized Because of Poorly Controlled Diabetes

A 56-year-old patient is hospitalized because of poorly controlled diabetes and a leg ulcer that developed as a complication of diabetes. The patient is awake, alert, and oriented but fatigued and in need of wound care. In the hospital, insulin and a variety of oral medications were prescribed. The patient is learning how to check their blood sugar and administer insulin. The patient has never given himself insulin and does not understand how to interpret blood sugar readings. The physician has prescribed discharge from the hospital with home health follow-up. Is this an appropriate referral?

A) Yes; the patient is in need of skilled services and, therefore, eligible for home care services.
B) Yes; the patient has been unable to control the diabetes, is noncompliant, and needs to be monitored.
C) No; the patient would remain hospitalized; there are too many needs for home care services.
D) No; the patient is relatively young and oriented and would be able to provide their own care.