A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetes mellitus. Which of the following laboratory findings indicates the client has maintained control of his blood glucose levels for the past 3 months?

Choice A reason: Applying an SPF 30 sunscreen before gardening is an appropriate statement, as it indicates that the client understands the importance of protecting their skin from sun exposure, which can trigger or worsen lupus flare-ups and cause skin rashes or lesions.

Choice B reason: Cleansing reddened areas of their face with an astringent is not an appropriate statement, as it indicates that the client does not understand that astringents can irritate or dry out their skin and aggravate their condition. The client should use mild soap and water or moisturizing cleanser to wash their face gently.

Choice C reason: Gently patting their skin dry after bathing is an appropriate statement, as it indicates that the client understands how to avoid rubbing or scratching their skin, which can cause injury or infection and delay healing.

Choice D reason: Applying lotion to their skin twice daily is an appropriate statement, as it indicates that the client understands how to keep their skin hydrated and prevent dryness or cracking that can increase their risk of infection or inflammation.

Choice E reason: Limiting time on tanning beds to 10 minutes is not an appropriate statement, as it indicates that the client does not understand that tanning beds emit ultraviolet rays that can harm their skin and worsen their lupus symptoms. The client should avoid tanning beds altogether and wear protective clothing and sunglasses when outdoors.

Choice A reason: Blurred vision is not an expected side effect of digoxin, but a sign of digoxin toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because digoxin can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. Therefore, clients taking digoxin need to have their potassium levels monitored regularly and consume foods rich in potassium.

Choice C reason: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of digoxin and reduce its effectiveness. Clients taking digoxin should avoid taking antacids within two hours of taking the medication.

Choice D reason: Weighing oneself every other day is not related to digoxin therapy, but to fluid balance. Clients with heart failure, who are often prescribed digoxin, need to monitor their weight daily and report any significant changes to their health care provider.