A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult client who has COPD and is receiving albuterol treatments and 20 mg of prednisone twice daily. The client asks why the nurse is checking his blood glucose level.
Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Older adults are at risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase.
Albuterol treatments can cause blood glucose levels to decrease.
Having COPD causes blood glucose levels to fluctuate.
The Correct Answer is B
Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase.
The nurse should explain to the client that the reason for checking his blood glucose level is because prednisone, a medication he is receiving, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions, including COPD. It has the potential to raise blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and decreasing insulin sensitivity. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important to assess and manage any potential hyperglycaemia or changes in the client's blood sugar levels while on prednisone.
Older adults are not at increased risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus in (option A) is incorrect. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that typically occurs in childhood or adolescence, and it is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Albuterol treatments, which are used to relieve bronchospasms in clients with COPD, are not known to cause blood glucose levels to decrease in (option C) is incorrect. Albuterol is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that primarily acts on the respiratory system and does not have a direct effect on blood glucose levels.
Having COPD does not directly cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate in (option D) is incorrect. While there can be various factors that may indirectly affect blood glucose levels in individuals with COPD (e.g., medications, stress, comorbidities), the primary reason for monitoring blood glucose in this case is the use of prednisone.
In summary, the nurse should explain to the client that the blood glucose levels are being checked because prednisone, a medication he is taking for his COPD, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. This allows for appropriate monitoring and management of any potential hyperglycemia associated with the use of prednisone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When collecting data from a child with pertussis (whooping cough), the nurse should expect the following manifestations:
- Paroxysmal cough: The hallmark symptom of pertussis is a severe, uncontrollable cough that often occurs in bursts (paroxysms) followed by a characteristic "whooping" sound as the child inhales.
- Posttussive vomiting: The coughing spells can be so severe that they may lead to vomiting.
- Inspiratory whoop: As mentioned earlier, during the inhalation phase after a coughing episode, the child may make a distinctive whooping sound.
- Cyanosis: The prolonged coughing episodes can sometimes cause the child's face to turn blue (cyanosis) due to inadequate oxygen intake.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: The frequent and intense coughing episodes can be exhausting for the child, leading to fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Other possible manifestations of pertussis can include a mild fever, runny nose, and sneezing. However, these symptoms are less specific to pertussis and can be seen in other respiratory infections as well.
The manifestations listed in the question (beefy, red tongue; facial erythema; peeling of the hands and feet) are not typically associated with pertussis and may be indicative of other conditions or diseases. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response allows the nurse to express genuine interest in the client's perspective and opens up a dialogue to understand the client's concerns or reasons for refusing to learn how to self-administer insulin. It provides an opportunity for the client to express their fears, doubts, or any barriers they may have. By actively listening to the client, the nurse can better address their concerns and provide appropriate education and support tailored to their individual needs.
The other options may come across as confrontational, judgmental, or unhelpful in establishing a therapeutic relationship with the client. It is important for the nurse to approach the situation with empathy, respect, and a non-judgmental attitude to foster effective communication and promote the client's engagement in their own care.
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