A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus calls the home care nurse and reports taking a morning dose of 70/30 insulin before realizing they have a stomach virus and are now unable to eat breakfast due to nausea. Which initial instruction should the nurse provide the client?
Drink regular colas frequently throughout the day until the nausea subsides.
Do not inject any additional insulin until solid food can be tolerated.
Go to the emergency room as soon as possible for glucose administration.
Continue to monitor blood glucose levels and drink fluids as tolerated.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Drinking regular colas can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels and is not an appropriate recommendation for managing nausea in a client with diabetes.
Choice B reason: Not injecting additional insulin until solid food can be tolerated is not advisable, as it may lead to hyperglycaemia or diabetic ketoacidosis. Insulin needs to be managed carefully even if the client is not eating.
Choice C reason: Going to the emergency room immediately may not be necessary if the client can manage their blood glucose levels at home with proper guidance.
Choice D reason: Monitoring blood glucose levels and drinking fluids as tolerated is the best initial advice. This helps prevent dehydration and maintain glucose control while dealing with the nausea. The client should also follow sick day management guidelines for diabetes and stay in touch with their healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Serum potassium of 5.0 me/L and serum sodium of 138 me/L are within normal ranges and do not reflect the expected electrolyte imbalances due to dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.
Choice B reason: Serum potassium of 4.5 me/L and serum sodium of 140 me/L are also within normal ranges. This does not reflect the typical imbalance caused by dehydration.
Choice C reason: Serum potassium of 3.5 me/L and serum sodium of 142 me/L are normal values. They do not indicate the electrolyte disturbances expected with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.
Choice D reason: Serum potassium of 3.0 me/L indicates hypokalaemia (low potassium), and serum sodium of 149 me/L indicates hypernatremia (high sodium). These imbalances are expected in a client with a history of fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, as these conditions can lead to loss of potassium and concentration of sodium due to dehydration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obtaining a fingerstick glucose every 6 hours is important for monitoring blood glucose levels and ensuring they are within the target range. However, it is not the most critical intervention for preventing diabetic ketoacidosis. Testing for ketones provides more specific information on the development of DKA.
Choice B reason: Ensuring IV fluids are infusing continuously is crucial for maintaining hydration and preventing electrolyte imbalances, particularly in a client who may be at risk for DKA. However, this intervention is supportive and not as directly related to detecting the onset of DKA as testing for ketones.
Choice C reason: Testing urine for the presence of ketones is the most important intervention. The presence of ketones indicates that the body is breaking down fat for energy instead of using glucose, which is a hallmark of diabetic ketoacidosis. Early detection of ketones allows for prompt intervention to prevent the progression of DKA.
Choice D reason: Teaching the client how to manage sick days is essential for long-term diabetes management and preventing complications during illness. However, for the immediate prevention of DKA in the hospital setting, testing for ketones is more urgent and directly related to detecting and managing the condition.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.