Recognising and managing the complications of type 2 diabetes

Recognising and managing the complications of type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the UK, and its prevalence is increasing, largely due to rapid increases in overweight and obesity in recent decades. By 2025, it is estimated that 5 million people in the UK will have diabetes. One of the primary aims of treating diabetes is to prevent the development of complications, which include blindness, kidney disease, amputation and cardiovascular disease. Effective treatment is of paramount importance, therefore, in order to reduce the numbers of people who suffer from these devastating and largely preventable complications.

This resource, consisting of five assessment questions at intermediate level, tests your knowledge of the complications of diabetes based on national and international guidance. Complete the resource to obtain a certificate for one hour of continuing professional development to include in your annual portfolio.

Aims and objectives

On completion of this resource, you should have an understanding of:

• The macrovascular complications of diabetes
• The microvascular complications of diabetes
• The practice nurse’s role in assessing cardiovascular risk in people with diabetes
• The practice nurse’s role in detecting complications

Date of preparation: February 2014

Updated: January 2016