Posted: July 30th, 2023

A Comprehensive SOAP Note for a Diabetic Patient in Advanced Nursing Practice

NRNP 6568 Synthesis In Advanced Nursing Pracrice. Comprehensive Soap Note of Diabetic patient.

A Comprehensive SOAP Note for a Diabetic Patient in Advanced Nursing Practice

Introduction

In advanced nursing practice, the systematic application of the SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) note format is of paramount importance for delivering high-quality patient care. This article presents a comprehensive SOAP note for a diabetic patient, an exemplar that exemplifies expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness in managing diabetes mellitus.

Subjective

The subjective section of the SOAP note entails gathering information directly from the patient or their caregiver, focusing on the patient’s perception of their health status. In the case of our diabetic patient, Mr. J.D., a 58-year-old male, he reported experiencing increased fatigue, excessive thirst, and frequent urination over the past two weeks. Additionally, Mr. J.D. revealed non-compliance with his medication regimen and a preference for a sedentary lifestyle due to work-related stress.

Objective

The objective component involves the nurse’s findings derived from physical examination, laboratory results, and relevant diagnostic tests. During the physical examination, Mr. J.D. exhibited a body mass index (BMI) of 32.5 kg/m², indicating obesity. Blood pressure was recorded at 150/90 mmHg, and capillary blood glucose levels were significantly elevated at 290 mg/dL. The patient displayed mild pallor and reduced pedal pulses bilaterally.

Assessment

The assessment section allows the nurse to analyze the subjective and objective data to form a clinical impression. In Mr. J.D.’s case, it is evident that he is experiencing uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus, compounded by hypertension and obesity. The inadequately managed blood glucose levels have likely contributed to his reported symptoms of fatigue and excessive thirst.

Moreover, the presence of reduced pedal pulses raises concerns about peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in Mr. J.D., which may further exacerbate his diabetic condition and put him at risk of developing complications, such as foot ulcers and gangrene.

Plan

The plan component involves the formulation of a treatment strategy to address the patient’s health issues and goals. In Mr. J.D.’s case, the following evidence-based interventions are recommended:

Diabetes Management: Initiate a comprehensive diabetes management plan, including lifestyle modifications, proper dietary counseling, and regular exercise, to achieve glycemic control.

Pharmacotherapy: Review and optimize Mr. J.D.’s current medication regimen. Consider starting or adjusting antidiabetic medications, such as metformin or sulfonylureas, to achieve target HbA1c levels.

Hypertension Management: Implement antihypertensive therapy to reduce blood pressure levels and minimize the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.

Weight Management: Develop a personalized weight loss program for Mr. J.D., focusing on a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to alleviate the burden of obesity and enhance metabolic control.

PAD Assessment: Refer Mr. J.D. for a comprehensive vascular assessment to evaluate the severity of peripheral arterial disease and determine appropriate interventions to prevent complications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the comprehensive SOAP note for our diabetic patient, Mr. J.D., exemplifies the expertise and trustworthiness required in advanced nursing practice. By employing the SOAP format, healthcare providers can systematically assess, diagnose, and develop appropriate treatment plans for patients with diabetes mellitus. The management of diabetes, combined with lifestyle modifications and addressing comorbidities, is crucial in ensuring optimal patient outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of life.

References:

American Diabetes Association. (2019). Standards of medical care in diabetes – 2019. Diabetes Care, 42(Supplement 1), S1-S193.

LeRoith, D., Biessels, G. J., Braithwaite, S. S., Casanueva, F. F., Draznin, B., Halter, J. B., … & Zinman, B. (2017). Treatment of diabetes in older adults: an Endocrine Society* clinical practice guideline. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 102(5), 1566-1594.

Powers, M. A., Bardsley, J., Cypress, M., Duker, P., Funnell, M. M., Fischl, A. H., … & Vivian, E. (2017). Diabetes self-management education and support in type 2 diabetes: a joint position statement of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The Diabetes Educator, 43(1), 40-53.

Dhatariya, K. K., & Vellanki, P. (2018). Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)/hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS): Novel advances in the management of hyperglycemic crises (UK versus USA). Current Diabetes Reports, 18(10), 100.