Under which condition would the nurse request increased frequency of hemoglobin A1c testing from the physician?

In the context of diabetes management, hemoglobin A1c testing is a vital tool used to monitor long-term glucose control. The A1c test indicates the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months, providing crucial information about how well diabetes is being managed.

When a patient has uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, it signifies that their blood sugar levels are frequently exceeding the normal range, indicating poor glycemic control. This situation requires closer monitoring to understand the patient's glucose trends and to make necessary adjustments to their treatment plan, which may involve changes in medication, dietary adjustments, or lifestyle interventions. Therefore, requesting increased frequency of A1c testing allows for timely assessment of the patient's status and can lead to better overall management of their condition.

In contrast, for conditions such as controlled diabetes, normal blood glucose levels, or incidents of hypoglycemia, the urgency for more frequent A1c testing diminishes. Controlled diabetes indicates stable blood glucose readings, while normal levels do not warrant increased surveillance. Hypoglycemia is an acute condition typically managed with immediate intervention rather than through regular A1c monitoring, which is focused on overall glucose control rather than episodic drops in blood sugar.