A home health nurse enters a client's home and finds a used insulin syringe, without a cap, on the table. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect purpose, because raising the bed linens off the client's feet to prevent plantar flexion is not related to the use of an abduction pillow. An abduction pillow is a wedge-shaped pillow that is placed between the client's legs to keep them apart and aligned. Raising the bed linens off the client's feet can be achieved by using a foot cradle or a bed frame.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect purpose, because keeping the client's heels off the bed to prevent pressure ulcers is not related to the use of an abduction pillow. An abduction pillow is a wedge-shaped pillow that is placed between the client's legs to keep them apart and aligned. Keeping the client's heels off the bed can be achieved by using a heel protector or a pillow under the lower legs.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect purpose, because positioning the client off the operative site while in bed is not related to the use of an abduction pillow. An abduction pillow is a wedge-shaped pillow that is placed between the client's legs to keep them apart and aligned. Positioning the client off the operative site can be achieved by using a trochanter roll or a pillow under the hip.

Choice D reason: This is the correct purpose, because preventing dislocation of the hip during position changes or movement is the main reason for using an abduction pillow. An abduction pillow is a wedge-shaped pillow that is placed between the client's legs to keep them apart and

Choice A reason: This is the correct data, because blood glucose using a glucometer can help diagnose and monitor the client's condition, which is likely diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood glucose, ketones in the urine, and acidosis in the blood. Fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst are common signs of DKA.

Choice B reason: This is an irrelevant data, because pupillary reaction to light has no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Pupillary reaction to light can help assess the client's neurological status and possible brain injury.

Choice C reason: This is an irrelevant data, because deep tendon reflexes have no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Deep tendon reflexes can help assess the client's neuromuscular function and possible spinal cord injury.

Choice D reason: This is a relevant data, but not the first one. Liver function laboratory values can help assess the client's hepatic function and possible liver damage, which can be a complication of DKA. However, blood glucose using a glucometer is more urgent and specific for the diagnosis and management of DKA.