Provide a description, in your own words, of the pathophysiology of the disease

Choose a disease or diagnosis from the following list:
a) Type I Diabetes. b) Type II Diabetes. c) Hypovolemic Shock. d) Cardiogenic Shock
e) Septic Shock. f) Surgical site infection. g) Stage 3 pressure injury. h) Lupus
i) Rheumatoid arthritis. j) Anaphylaxis. k) HIV/AIDS. l) Cancer (any type)
Required elements:
a) Provide a description, in your own words, of the pathophysiology of the disease
b) Risk factors contributing to the development of the disease
c) Signs and symptoms – with description of why these would be found (a total of 6; be
sure to include subjective and objective data)
d) Diagnostics – 2 ways the disease may be diagnosed, including a brief description of the significance of the findings
e) Nursing diagnoses – at least 3 relevant nursing diagnoses, properly phrased
f) Treatment – at least 2 medical treatments, including some discussion of how this
treatment works
g) Nursing interventions – at least 4 nursing interventions, including some discussion of the goals and outcomes of these interventions
h) References – refer to at least 3 current,

ANSWER
**Disease: Type II Diabetes**

**a) Pathophysiology:**
Type II Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. It develops when the body’s cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, causing blood sugar (glucose) levels to rise. The pancreas initially produces more insulin to compensate, but over time, it becomes less efficient. This imbalance results in elevated glucose levels in the bloodstream, leading to various complications. Chronic hyperglycemia damages blood vessels, nerves, and organs, causing long-term health issues.

**b) Risk Factors:**
Risk factors for Type II Diabetes include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet (especially high in sugar and saturated fats), family history of diabetes, age (more common in adults), and metabolic syndrome.

**c) Signs and Symptoms:**
– **Polyuria (excessive urination):** High glucose levels in the blood lead to increased urine production.
– **Polydipsia (excessive thirst):** Dehydration from frequent urination results in increased thirst.
– **Polyphagia (excessive hunger):** Cells are deprived of glucose, causing persistent hunger.
– **Fatigue:** Cells cannot access glucose for energy.
– **Blurred Vision:** Fluid shifts can affect the lens in the eye.
– **Poor Wound Healing:** High blood sugar impairs the body’s ability to heal.

**d) Diagnostics:**
1. **Fasting Blood Glucose Test:** A fasting blood sugar level of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher indicates diabetes. This finding signifies sustained hyperglycemia.
2. **Hemoglobin A1c Test:** An A1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes. It reflects the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months.

**e) Nursing Diagnoses:**
1. **Risk for Unstable Blood Glucose Levels:** Due to insulin resistance, patients may be at risk for frequent fluctuations in blood glucose.
2. **Deficient Knowledge regarding Disease Management:** Many newly diagnosed patients lack information on self-care.
3. **Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity:** High blood sugar levels can impair wound healing.

**f) Treatment:**
1. **Oral Antidiabetic Medications:** Medications like Metformin enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce hepatic glucose production.
2. **Lifestyle Modifications:** Diet and exercise play a vital role in managing Type II Diabetes. They help control blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

**g) Nursing Interventions:**
1. **Education:** Provide comprehensive diabetes education to patients, focusing on diet, exercise, medication, and blood glucose monitoring.
2. **Blood Glucose Monitoring:** Teach patients how to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust their medication or lifestyle accordingly.
3. **Wound Care:** Assist in wound care and educate patients on the importance of proper wound management.
4. **Support and Motivation:** Offer emotional support and motivation to help patients adhere to their treatment plans.

**h) References:**
1. American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes. Diabetes Care, 44(1), S73-S84.
2. Powers, A. C., & D’Alessio, D. (2015). Endocrine pancreas and pharmacotherapy of diabetes mellitus and hypoglycemia. In Goodman & Gilman’s: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (13th ed., pp. 1237-1268).