A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of type 1 diabetes?

Rationale:
A. Place monitoring cords and tubes in a stockinette: Clients with latex allergies are at risk for serious reactions from contact with latex-containing equipment. Covering cords and tubing with a stockinette helps prevent direct skin exposure to latex, reducing the risk of an allergic reaction.

B. Schedule the client for the last surgery of the day: Clients with latex allergies should be scheduled as the first surgery of the day to minimize their exposure to airborne latex particles and reduce contamination from previously used equipment or surfaces.

C. Choose rubber injection ports for fluid administration: Rubber injection ports often contain latex, which can trigger severe allergic reactions. For clients with latex allergies, non-latex or latex-free alternatives must be used for all fluid and medication administration.

D. Have phenytoin IV readily available: Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant used to manage seizures and is not specifically indicated for treating allergic reactions. Epinephrine, antihistamines, and corticosteroids should be available in case of an anaphylactic reaction.

Rationale:
A. Maintain the head of the bed greater than 45°: Elevating the head of the bed beyond 30° increases pressure and shear forces on the sacrum, contributing to skin breakdown. The bed should be maintained at the lowest elevation necessary to reduce pressure injury risk.

B. Place a donut-shaped cushion under the client’s sacrum: Donut-shaped cushions can impede blood flow and concentrate pressure on surrounding tissues, increasing the risk of pressure injuries rather than preventing them. Specialty foam or gel cushions are preferred for pressure redistribution.

C. Massage bony prominences three times daily: Massaging over bony areas is contraindicated as it may cause further tissue damage in areas already at risk for pressure injury. Prevention strategies focus on pressure relief, skin protection, and improved circulation without direct trauma.

D. Apply moisturizer to damp skin after bathing: Applying moisturizer to slightly damp skin helps retain moisture, prevents dryness and cracking, and maintains skin integrity. This is an evidence-based practice in pressure injury prevention, especially for clients with fragile or at-risk skin.