A glucagon emergency kit is prescribed for a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus to be used at home. When should the nurse instruct the client and family that glucagon needs to be administered?
At the onset of signs of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Before meals to prevent hyperglycemia.
When unable to eat during sick days.
When signs of severe hypoglycemia occur.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Diabetic ketoacidosis is a complication of diabetes that occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones due to lack of insulin. Glucagon is not indicated for this condition, as it would increase the blood glucose level even more. The nurse should instruct the client and family to monitor the blood glucose and ketone levels, administer insulin as prescribed, and seek medical attention if the condition worsens.
Choice B reason: Glucagon is not used to prevent hyperglycemia, which is a high blood glucose level. Glucagon is a hormone that raises the blood glucose level by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver. The nurse should instruct the client and family to prevent hyperglycemia by following a balanced diet, taking insulin as prescribed, and exercising regularly.
Choice C reason: Glucagon is not used when the client is unable to eat during sick days, unless the client has signs of hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level. Glucagon is used as a last resort when the client is unconscious or unable to swallow. The nurse should instruct the client and family to follow the sick day rules, which include monitoring the blood glucose and urine ketone levels, taking insulin as prescribed, drinking fluids, and eating small amounts of carbohydrates.
Choice D reason: Glucagon is used when the client has signs of severe hypoglycemia, such as confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Glucagon is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly by a family member or a caregiver to raise the blood glucose level quickly. The nurse should instruct the client and family to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia, treat mild to moderate hypoglycemia with oral glucose, and call 911 after administering glucagon.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Performing a neurological exam is not the priority action in this situation. Confusion and blurred vision are signs of hypoglycemia, which is a low blood sugar level. Glipizide is a medication that lowers blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. The nurse should first confirm the blood sugar level before performing any other assessments or interventions.
Choice B reason: Obtaining a fingerstick blood glucose is the best action in this situation. This is a quick and easy way to measure the blood sugar level and determine if the client is experiencing hypoglycemia. The nurse should use a glucometer and a lancet to prick the client's finger and obtain a drop of blood. The nurse should compare the result with the normal range and follow the hypoglycemia protocol.
Choice C reason: Administering glucagon intramuscularly is not the first action in this situation. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver. It is used as an emergency treatment for severe hypoglycemia, when the client is unconscious or unable to swallow. The nurse should only administer glucagon after confirming the blood sugar level and trying oral glucose first.
Choice D reason: Measuring the client's vital signs is not the priority action in this situation. Vital signs include blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and temperature. They can provide information about the client's overall health and stability, but they are not specific to hypoglycemia. The nurse should focus on the blood sugar level, which is the most relevant indicator of hypoglycemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Confirming that the daughter is aware of the progressive nature of the disease is not the best response, as it does not address the daughter's misconception about the drug. The nurse should educate the daughter that rivastigmine does not cure or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease, but only slows down the cognitive decline.
Choice B reason: Affirming the decision to use the medication when the symptoms start to worsen is not appropriate, as it contradicts the evidence-based practice. The nurse should inform the daughter that rivastigmine is most effective when used in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, as it can delay the need for institutionalization and improve the quality of life.
Choice C reason: Explaining that the drug should be used early in the course of the disease process is the best response, as it corrects the daughter's misunderstanding and provides accurate information. The nurse should explain that rivastigmine works by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in memory and learning. By increasing the level of acetylcholine in the brain, rivastigmine can improve the cognitive function and behavior of the client.
Choice D reason: Assessing the client's current mental status before deciding to support the decision is not relevant, as it does not address the daughter's concern or the rationale for the drug. The nurse should already have the client's baseline mental status from the initial assessment and diagnosis. The nurse should focus on educating the daughter about the benefits and risks of rivastigmine and encouraging her to follow the prescribed regimen.
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