A nurse is monitoring a client who has diabetes mellitus and a glucose level of 384 mg/dl. (74 to 106 mg/dL). Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of metabolic acidosis?

Choice A Reason:

Maintaining skin integrity over the blisters is correct. Blisters form as a protective mechanism for the skin underneath. Popping or breaking blisters increases the risk of infection as it exposes the raw skin to bacteria and other contaminants.

Choice B Reason:

Applying ice to the larger blisters is incorrect.

Reason: Applying ice directly to a burn, especially to blisters, can further damage the skin and exacerbate the injury. Ice can cause additional skin damage and can potentially increase pain and delay healing.

Choice C Reason:

Administering ibuprofen for pain is correct. Ibuprofen is an effective over-the-counter pain reliever that can help manage the discomfort caused by a minor burn. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling associated with burns.

Choice D Reason:

Running cool water over the affected area is correct. Running cool (not cold) water over the burn helps to cool down the burned area, soothes the pain, and helps prevent further damage to the skin. It's recommended to run water over the burn for around 10-15 minutes to effectively cool the area.

Choice E Reason:

Allowing the affected area to remain open to air is incorrect. Keeping a minor burn uncovered can increase the risk of infection as it exposes the burn to external contaminants. Covering the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing can protect it from further damage and reduce the risk of infection.

Choice A Reason:
Absence of Chvostek's sign is a wrong indication. Chvostek's sign is a twitching of facial muscles in response to tapping the facial nerve and is typically associated with low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia). It's not directly related to hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels. Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus.
Choice B Reason:
Presence of Kussmaul respirations is a right indication. Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored breathing patterns often seen in individuals with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe complication of diabetes characterized by significantly high blood sugar levels and the presence of ketones in the blood and urine. This type of breathing pattern is the body's attempt to compensate for the acidic state caused by high blood sugar and the buildup of ketones.
Choice C Reason:
Presence of diaphoresis is a wrong indication. Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can occur due to various reasons such as physical activity, heat, stress, or certain medical conditions. While hyperglycemia can cause symptoms like increased thirst and frequent urination, diaphoresis alone is not a specific indicator of high blood sugar levels.
Choice D Reason:
Absence of urinary ketones is a wrong indication. The presence of urinary ketones indicates the body is breaking down fat for energy, which commonly occurs during periods of insufficient insulin (such as in hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis). However, the absence of urinary ketones doesn't necessarily rule out hyperglycemia. It's possible for hyperglycemia to be present without ketones in the urine, especially in the early stages or when the body is still managing blood sugar levels without significant ketone production.