A patient has been recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The patient states, "I am thin and eat all of the time, how can I have diabetes?" Which of the following responses by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by the body's inability to produce insulin, which is necessary for glucose to enter cells and be converted into energy. Therefore, despite eating frequently, the patient's body cannot effectively use this food for energy, leading to symptoms such as weight loss or difficulty gaining weight. This makes option C the most appropriate and informative response, as it directly addresses the patient's concern by explaining the underlying issue with energy production in diabetes.

A Patient Has Been Recently Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes