The nurse notes that a client with diabetes has muscle wasting. What should the nurse consider as being the reason for this finding?

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Fat catabolism occurs when the body can't use or lacks a supply of glucose for energy and results in weight loss. Protein catabolism also occurs under the same circumstances, but in this case, skeletal muscle is broken down and the resulting amino acids are used to meet energy needs. Glucose metabolism is the preferred energy source for the body, but depends on an adequate supply of carbohydrates and insulin. Ketones are a by-product of fat catabolism and are eliminated by the kidneys, not metabolized in the body.

The Nurse Notes That a Client with Diabetes Has Muscle