A nurse has provided diabetic teaching with the family of a client newly diagnosed with diabetes. The nurse determines that the family understands the reason for having glucagon on hand for emergency home use if the family indicates that the purpose of the medication is to treat

A. Push IV potassium: Potassium should be administered slowly and with caution, as administering potassium too rapidly can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Potassium should only be given according to specific protocols and after monitoring serum potassium levels.

B. Administer intravenous potassium: In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), potassium levels often decrease due to insulin therapy, which shifts potassium into cells. Intravenous potassium is often required to replace lost potassium and prevent dangerous complications.

C. Assess fluid volume status: In DKA, the client experiences significant fluid loss due to polyuria (frequent urination) and dehydration. It is important to closely monitor the client’s fluid volume status and correct it with intravenous fluids, typically normal saline.

D. Check for urinary ketones: Urinary ketones are a key marker in diagnosing DKA. The nurse should monitor for the presence of ketones in the urine as it helps assess the degree of ketosis and the effectiveness of treatment.

E. Maintain adequate ventilation: In DKA, respiratory compensation (such as Kussmaul breathing) is common as the body attempts to correct acidosis. Adequate ventilation should be ensured to support the respiratory system and correct the metabolic acidosis.

A. Prevent diabetic coma: A diabetic coma (such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state) is not the primary concern related to insulin administration. It is associated with severe hyperglycemia, not with the need for a snack to balance insulin action.

B. Improve nutrition: While the snack may help with overall nutrition, it is not primarily intended to improve nutrition in this scenario. The goal is to maintain blood sugar levels within a safe range, particularly after insulin administration.

C. Improve carbohydrate metabolism: The primary goal of the mid-afternoon snack is not to directly impact carbohydrate metabolism. The snack is designed to maintain glucose levels after insulin has been administered.

D. Prevent an insulin reaction: The snack is likely provided to prevent hypoglycemia or an insulin reaction (low blood sugar). Humulin N insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin, and its peak action occurs several hours after administration. The snack helps prevent low blood sugar by providing a source of glucose to balance the insulin effect.