Diabetic Nephropathy: The Nurse’s Role

Abstract

        Diabetic nephropathy is the most common cause for end-stage renal disease and for patients entering into chronic dialysis care. It occurs in 25-40% of patients with diabetes. Risk factors include hyperglycemia, hypertension, and genetics. Prevention of diabetic nephropathy is crucial. Strict control of diabetes and blood pressure control are all associated with the prevention of or delay in progression of diabetic kidney injury and the reduction of renal replacement therapy. However, there are limitations to the screening system for screening patients at risk for diagnosis. Including the delay in the treatment of delayed kidney disease. Therefore, it is a challenging role for nurses to set guidelines for slowing progression in these patients. This article presents pathogenesis diabetic nephropathy, the role of the nurse in slowing the progression in stages in order for staff to take care of the patients to prevent renal replacement therapy and improve quality of life.