A 65-year-old female patient with diabetes has an Hgb A1c of 8.4%. What additional medication should be ensured?

In managing a patient with diabetes, particularly someone who is 65 years old and has an Hgb A1c level of 8.4%, the addition of an ACE inhibitor like Benazepril is crucial for comprehensive care. ACE inhibitors have been shown to provide renal protection for patients with diabetes, effectively reducing the risk of diabetic nephropathy. This is particularly important in older adults, who may be at higher risk of complications related to diabetes.

Furthermore, patients with diabetes are at an increased risk for cardiovascular events. Benazepril also has cardiovascular benefits, helping to manage hypertension, which is often co-morbid with diabetes. The ability to lower blood pressure and provide renal protection makes Benazepril an excellent choice in this scenario.

The other medications listed may serve different purposes but do not directly address the pressing concerns of renal protection or blood pressure management as effectively as an ACE inhibitor does in the context of a diabetic patient. Nifedipine and amlodipine are calcium channel blockers that primarily manage hypertension and might not offer the same renal protection, while atenolol, a beta-blocker, is primarily indicated for cardiovascular conditions and may not address the specific needs of this patient with diabetes as effectively as an ACE