A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus. The nurse determines that teaching has been effective when the client identifies which of the following manifestations of hypoglycemia? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A: Negative Chvostek’s sign is the absence of facial twitching when the facial nerve is tapped. This is a normal finding and does not indicate hypoparathyroidism. A positive Chvostek’s sign is a sign of hypocalcemia, which can occur in hypoparathyroidism.

Choice B: Flaccid muscles are weak and limp muscles that lack tone and resistance. This is not a typical finding of hypoparathyroidism, as low levels of parathyroid hormone can cause muscle spasms, cramps, and tetany.

Choice C: Numbness of the hands is a common finding of hypoparathyroidism, as low levels of parathyroid hormone can cause hypocalcemia, which affects the nerve function and sensation. Numbness can also occur in the feet, lips, and tongue.

Choice D: Hypercalcemia is a high level of calcium in the blood. This is not a finding of hypoparathyroidism, as low levels of parathyroid hormone can cause hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Hypercalcemia can be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, which is the opposite condition of hypoparathyroidism.

Choice A reason: Injecting insulin into a muscle that is going to be exercised can increase the absorption of insulin and lower the blood glucose level, leading to hypoglycemia. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid injecting insulin into the same body part that will be involved in the exercise.

Choice B reason: Carrying a complex carbohydrate snack with you when you exercise is not a good idea. Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and raise the blood glucose level slowly. They are not suitable for treating or preventing hypoglycemia during or after exercise. A simple carbohydrate snack, such as glucose tablets, juice or candy, is more appropriate for this purpose.

Choice C reason: Exercising first thing in the morning before eating breakfast is not recommended for people with type 1 diabetes. This can cause a drop in blood glucose level and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. It is beter to have a balanced breakfast that includes some carbohydrates and adjust the insulin dose accordingly before exercising.

Choice D reason: Increasing the intensity of your exercise routine if your urine is positive for ketones is a dangerous practice. Ketones are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy due to lack of insulin or glucose. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical atention. Intense exercise can raise the blood glucose level further and worsen the situation. If your urine is positive for ketones, you should avoid vigorous activity and check your blood glucose and ketone levels frequently.