A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is admitted to the hospital for uncontrolled DM. Insulin therapy is initiated with an initial dose Isophane suspension insulin at 0800. At 1600, the client reports having diaphoresis, rapid heartbeat, and feeling shaky. Which should the nurse do first?

Assess the client's oxygen saturation level.

Determine the client's current glucose level

Give the client one-half cup of fruit juice.

Give the client skim milk and crackers.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   While oxygen saturation is important, it's not the priority in this situation. The client's symptoms strongly suggest hypoglycemia.
B.   The client's symptoms of diaphoresis, rapid heartbeat, and shakiness are classic signs of hypoglycemia. Therefore, the first action should be to confirm this diagnosis by checking the blood glucose level.
C.   Administering glucose before confirming hypoglycemia can be dangerous. If the client is hyperglycemic, giving them sugar will worsen their condition.
D.   Providing food without confirming hypoglycemia is not appropriate.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Ensuring that the IV solution is infusing at the prescribed rate is an important task to maintain adequate fluid and electrolyte balance, especially if the client is experiencing signs of shock or low blood pressure. However, this action alone does not address the immediate need to assess or intervene for potential critical issues such as bleeding or severe hemodynamic instability.
B. Listening to lung sounds can help assess for pulmonary complications, such as fluid accumulation or atelectasis, which can be relevant postoperatively. However, in the context of hypotension, tachycardia, and altered mental status, the priority is to address potential critical issues related to circulatory stability and bleeding.
C. It is essential to inform the healthcare provider of the client's condition, but this should be done after initial interventions to stabilize the client. This action is necessary but not the first priority.
D. The first action should be to check for any signs of bleeding, especially after abdominal surgery where internal bleeding is a possibility.

A. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter. B. Obtain blood for serum cardiac enzymes. C. Provide emotional support. D. Auscultate lung fields for fine rales.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter may be considered if the client is unable to urinate or if precise measurement of urine output is crucial for assessing fluid status. However, in this context, the immediate concern is more likely related to the client's cardiovascular status and respiratory symptoms rather than urinary output.
B. Serum cardiac enzymes (such as troponin, CK-MB) are important for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction or myocardial injury. While this is relevant for assessing cardiac damage, the elevated BNP level and current symptoms suggest that heart failure or fluid overload might be more pressing concerns.

C. Emotional support is important for any patient, especially those dealing with significant health issues. However, in this situation, the priority should be on addressing the immediate physiological concerns related to the client's symptoms and laboratory findings. Emotional support can be provided alongside other clinical interventions but should not be the primary action in this acute setting.
D. Fine rales (or crackles) in the lung fields are often associated with pulmonary congestion or fluid
overload, which are common in heart failure. Given the elevated BNP level and the client’s symptoms of
shortness of breath and fatigue, assessing the lung fields for rales is crucial.

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A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is admitted to the hospital for uncontrolled DM. Insulin therapy is initiated with an initial dose Isophane suspension insulin at 0800. At 1600, the client reports having diaphoresis, rapid heartbeat, and feeling shaky. Which should the nurse do first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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