Why you should read this article:

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To refresh your knowledge of the main anatomical features of the eye and their function

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To enhance your understanding of the harmful effects of chronic hyperglycaemia on eye health

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To understand the role of the nurse in supporting patients with ocular complications of diabetes mellitus

Diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of preventable sight loss in the working-age population and a major global health issue. It is caused by chronic hyperglycaemia, which also predisposes patients with diabetes mellitus to a range of other ocular complications including diabetic macular oedema, eye infections, diabetic cataract, and dry eye and corneal complications. Ocular complications of diabetes can significantly affect people’s quality of life, so regular eye screening from the point of diabetes diagnosis, as well as a multidisciplinary team approach, are required to identify these complications early, manage them effectively, and support patients to achieve glycaemic control. This article provides an overview of diabetic retinopathy and other ocular complications of diabetes, and explains the role of the nurse in providing health promotion, patient education and support.