"Role of Medical-Surgical Nurses in Monitoring and Managing Diabetes Mellitus in Hospitalized Patients"

Abstract: Diabetes mellitus has become one of the most challenging chronic diseases worldwide, contributing significantly to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditure. Hospitalized patients with diabetes are at an even higher risk due to acute medical conditions, surgical interventions, infections, and metabolic imbalances. Poor glycemic control during hospitalization has been associated with adverse outcomes, including prolonged hospital stay, increased risk of infection, impaired wound healing, and higher mortality rates. Within the hospital environment, medical-surgical nurses serve as the backbone of patient care. Their role is pivotal in ensuring safe and effective monitoring and management of diabetes through vigilant blood glucose monitoring, administration of insulin and other therapies, prevention of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, patient education, psychosocial support, and discharge planning. They act as coordinators of care within a multidisciplinary team and advocates for patient safety. This article explores the comprehensive role of medical-surgical nurses in the monitoring and management of diabetes mellitus among hospitalized patients. It provides an overview of their clinical responsibilities, challenges, evidence-based practices, and strategies to enhance nursing contributions to better patient outcomes.