To screen for diabetic neuropathy, which question is most informative to ask during intake?

To screen for diabetic neuropathy, which question is most informative to ask during intake?

• A. Ask about knee range of motion.
• B. Ask about sleep apnea.
• C. Ask about loss of sensation, burning, or balance difficulties in the feet.
• D. Ask about appetite changes.

Answer: (C)

Diabetic neuropathy shows up most clearly as sensory and balance problems in the feet. Asking about loss of sensation, burning, or balance difficulties in the feet directly screens for these nerve-related changes, which is exactly what you want to identify early during intake. This helps flag patients who may need further testing, foot care guidance, and tighter nerve-health management.

Knee range of motion relates to joint mobility, not nerve damage. Sleep apnea is a separate health issue and doesn’t specifically screen for neuropathy. Appetite changes reflect metabolic status rather than nerve function. So the feet-focused symptom question is the most informative for detecting neuropathy.