What information should a nurse provide to a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus who reports waking up at night with tremors and anxiety?

The recommendation to eat a bedtime snack is particularly relevant for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus who is experiencing nocturnal tremors and anxiety. These symptoms can often be associated with hypoglycemia, which is a drop in blood sugar levels. Consuming a snack that includes carbohydrates before bed can help maintain stable blood glucose levels throughout the night. This is essential for preventing glucose levels from dropping too low, which could lead to the client experiencing tremors and feelings of anxiety.

A bedtime snack should ideally be balanced, containing a combination of carbohydrates and protein, to ensure a slow and steady release of glucose into the bloodstream. This helps promote more stable blood sugar levels during the night, reducing the risk of hypoglycemic episodes and associated symptoms.

Other interventions, such as taking insulin before bed or avoiding carbohydrates in the evening, may not be appropriate without proper monitoring and assessment of the client's current blood sugar control. Drinking water before sleeping, while important for hydration, does not directly address the management of blood sugar levels or the client's symptoms.