The nurse is giving discharge instructions to a patient with diabetes mellitus regarding glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The nurse knows that the patient understands the teachings if he states:

Explanation

•HbA1c monitors long term control of blood glucose levels. The diabetic goal is a HbA1c <7%.

•HbA1c measures the amount of glucose molecules that have reacted with a red blood cell over the lifespan of the cell (120 days).

•HbA1c levels are done 2-4 times annually.

•Routine blood glucose checks use capillary blood and are done at least every morning.

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