A scheduled client has diabetes and is showing symptoms of diabetes. The client reported recent test findings of a fasting blood glucose level greater than 126 mg/dL, and blood glucose levels greater than 200 mg/dL two hours after a meal. The dental hygienist should do which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After assessing a person with symptoms of diabetes, fasting blood glucose levels of 126 mg/dL or higher, and blood glucose levels over 200 mg/dL two hours after a meal, the dental hygienist should defer treatment and refer the patient to his or her physician. These values reflect a diagnosis of diabetes, and the person will benefit from the referral. Furthermore, continuing care without alterations may result in complications from the dental care (such as infection and poor healing). A consultation with the physician to determine the best course of action will most likely result in the same course of action-specifically, referral. The diabetes needs to be controlled before dental hygiene care.

A Scheduled Client Has Diabetes and Is Showing Symptoms of Diabetes