A client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is receiving regular insulin. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement to evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage?
Smell the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor.
Determine the client's orientation to time and space.
Measure the client's urinary output for an increased volume.
Check fingerstick blood glucose for a decrease in the level.
The Correct Answer is D
Regular insulin is the medication of choice for treating DKA. Its main action is to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and inhibiting the production of glucose by the liver. Therefore, checking the fingerstick blood glucose level is an important indicator of the effectiveness of the insulin treatment.
A decrease in the blood glucose level indicates that the insulin is working to lower the high blood sugar associated with DKA. This measurement helps the PN assess the response to treatment and adjust the insulin dosage if necessary.
The other actions mentioned are also important assessments in the care of a client with DKA, but they do not specifically evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage:
A. Smelling the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor is important as it indicates a decrease in ketone production, which is a marker of improving DKA. However, it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
B. Determining the client's orientation to time and space is part of assessing their neurological status, which is crucial in managing DKA. However, it does not specifically assess the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
C. Measuring the client's urinary output for an increased volume is important to monitor hydration status and renal function, but it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reporting drainage around the GT site is important for monitoring for infection, but it is not the most critical safety measure during the bath.
B. Using pillows to position the client can provide comfort and support, but it does not prevent a serious complication.
C. Keeping the head of the bed raised during continuous tube feeding is essential to reduce the risk of aspiration, which is a priority safety concern.
D. Raising the bed can reduce back strain for the UAP, but client safety takes precedence over staff ergonomics in this context.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the most important complication for the practical nurse (PN) to anticipate because it is a common and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in clients with severe burns. Curling's ulcer, also known as stress ulcer, is a type of peptic ulcer that develops in the stomach or duodenum as a result of stress, shock, trauma, or burns. It is caused by decreased blood flow and increased acid secretion in the gastrointestinal tract, which damages the mucosal lining and leads to ulceration and bleeding.
The PN should anticipate Curling's ulcer in a client who experienced partial-thickness burns over 30% of the body surface area (BSA) 3 days ago, as this is a major risk factor for developing stress ulcers. The PN should monitor the client for signs and symptoms of Curling's ulcer, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, hematemesis, melena, and anemia. The PN should also administer prophylactic medications such as antacids, histamine-2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors as prescribed by the health care provider.
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