Diabetes: treatment and complications--the nurse's role

Diabetes is treated by insulin (type 1), and by diet and exercise alone or in combination with insulin (type 2). The long-term complications of diabetes can be devastating in their effects, therefore good glycaemic control must be a target for all patients. Nurses have a role in diabetes care as specialists or as part of general care. Screening for complications and referral of patients to relevant agencies when necessary are important aspects of their work, as is offering health promotion advice.