A client on insulin becomes unconscious with a blood glucose of 40 mg/dL. What is the priority intervention?

Administer IM glucagon

Recheck glucose in 30 minutes

Administer IV insulin

Give orange juice by mouth

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Rationale:

A. An unconscious client with severe hypoglycemia cannot swallow safely. Glucagon stimulates glycogen breakdown in the liver, rapidly increasing blood glucose. This is a life-saving intervention and the first priority in severe hypoglycemia when the patient is unresponsive.

B. Delaying treatment in a severely hypoglycemic, unconscious patient is extremely dangerous. Hypoglycemia at 40 mg/dL can lead to seizures, coma, brain damage, or death. Immediate action is required; rechecking without treatment does not address the urgent need for glucose.

C. Insulin lowers blood glucose by promoting cellular uptake of glucose. Administering insulin in a hypoglycemic patient would exacerbate the condition, potentially causing irreversible neurologic damage or death. This is the opposite of the needed intervention.

D. Oral carbohydrate is safe only for conscious patients able to swallow. In an unconscious patient, attempting to give juice poses a high risk of aspiration, which can lead to airway obstruction, aspiration pneumonia, and death.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Secondary progressive MS initially begins as relapsing-remitting, with periods of symptom flare-ups followed by partial recovery. Over time, the disease may transition into a phase of steady progression, but this is after an initial relapsing course, not from disease onset.

B. Progressive-relapsing MS is characterized by steady neurological decline from onset, with occasional superimposed relapses. However, it is a rare subtype. Although it has continuous worsening, the hallmark is the presence of distinct relapses, unlike primary progressive MS, which is purely progressive without relapses.

C. Relapsing-remitting MS is the most common form and is characterized by episodes of new or worsening neurological symptoms (relapses) followed by partial or complete recovery (remissions). Neurological function does not worsen continuously, making this inconsistent with the scenario.

D. Primary progressive MS involves gradual, continuous neurological deterioration from the onset of symptoms, without distinct relapses or remissions. Patients experience steady accumulation of disability, often involving spinal cord symptoms such as weakness and spasticity. This subtype represents 10–15% of MS cases and typically does not respond as well to disease-modifying therapies compared with relapsing forms.

A. "Exercise and losing weight can help me control my blood sugar." B. "Insulin is never used for type 2 diabetes." C. "Checking my blood sugar will help me see how well I'm managing. D. "Oral medications may be prescribed to help lower my blood sugar." E. "Healthy food choices and portion control are part of managing diabetes."

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity and weight management improve insulin sensitivity and can significantly help control blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes. This statement reflects accurate understanding of non-pharmacologic management.

B. While many patients with type 2 diabetes initially manage the condition with lifestyle changes and oral medications, insulin may be required if blood glucose is persistently elevated or during times of illness, surgery, or pregnancy. This statement demonstrates a misunderstanding of disease management.

C. Regular blood glucose monitoring allows the patient and healthcare team to assess the effectiveness of diet, exercise, and medications and make timely adjustments. This demonstrates accurate understanding of self-management.

D. Many patients with type 2 diabetes require oral hypoglycemic agents (e.g., metformin, sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors) to achieve glycemic control. Recognizing the potential need for medications reflects correct knowledge.

E. Nutrition is a cornerstone of diabetes management. Balanced meals, carbohydrate counting, and portion control help prevent blood glucose spikes and support overall health. This statement demonstrates understanding of dietary management strategies.

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A client on insulin becomes unconscious with a blood glucose of 40 mg/dL. What is the priority intervention?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]

Explanation

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