Diabetes — Prevent Complications

Endocrinology · Ward Pathways · Free — no sign-in

Established diabetic on metformin

  1. Give: ACE inhibitor (lisinopril) + Statin (atorvastatin); BP goal <130/80
  2. Microalbuminuria → ACE inhibitor (nephroprotection)
  3. Screen annually: dilated eye exam, foot exam, urine microalbumin

Order set

  • HbA1c, lipids
  • Urine ACR
  • U&E
  • Retinal + foot exam
  • BP

Criteria

AdmitComplication (foot sepsis, AKI, ACS)
DischargeTargets set, screening arranged

Never

  • Combine ACE inhibitor with ARB (no added benefit)
Clinical detail — differentials, red flags, pitfalls, disposition
Red flags
  • Rising ACR
  • Foot ulcer
  • Rapid eGFR decline
Differentials
Common mistakes
  • Combining ACEi+ARB
  • Neglecting foot/eye screening
Disposition & follow-up

BP <130/80, statin, ACEi for albuminuria; annual screening.

Discharge package
MedicationsACEi for albuminuria, statin, BP control; SGLT2i for CKD with ACR ≥30 or HF; finerenone for T2D + CKD (albuminuria despite ACEi/ARB, eGFR ≥25) — ADA 2026/KDIGO 2024
Follow-upAnnual eye/foot/renal screening
VaccinationInfluenza, pneumococcal
LifestyleGlycaemic + BP + lipid targets, foot care
Warning symptomsFoot ulcer, vision change, chest pain
💊 Treatment detail — doses & preparation
LisinoprilACE inhibitor
DoseStart 2.5–5 mg OD, target 20–40 mg OD
Preparation2.5/5/10/20 mg tablets
MonitorCreatinine + K⁺ 1–2 wk after each titration
Atorvastatinstatin
Dose20–80 mg OD (post-ACS 80 mg)
Preparation10/20/40/80 mg tablets, any time of day
MonitorLFTs baseline, muscle symptoms; target LDL reduction ≥50%
DapagliflozinSGLT2 inhibitor
Dose10 mg OD (HF ± diabetes)
Preparation10 mg tablets
MonitorSick-day rules (hold when fasting/surgery), euglycaemic DKA, genital infections, eGFR
📖 ADA / KDIGO Diabetes & CKDReviewed July 2026

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