A nurse is reviewing provider prescriptions for a client who has reduced kidney function. Which of the following prescribed diagnostics should the nurse question?

A. Water pitcher on client's bedside table: Water does not require special handling after chemotherapy. The nurse should ensure that the client has access to clean drinking water, but there are no special precautions for handling it.
B. Client's urine in the bedside commode: Client's urine after chemotherapy requires special handling, as it may contain cytotoxic drugs or their metabolites for up to 48 hours. Proper precautions, such as wearing gloves and using appropriate disposal methods, are necessary to avoid exposure.
C. Client's bed linens after use: Bed linens do not require special handling unless contaminated with bodily fluids such as urine or vomit that could contain chemotherapy drugs. Gloves should be worn, but no additional precautions are required unless the linens are contaminated.
D. Food tray and utensils from client's breakfast: Food trays and utensils do not require special handling after chemotherapy unless they are contaminated with body fluids. Normal cleaning and sanitation practices are sufficient.

Rationale for Correct Choice

• Administer regular insulin 4 units subcutaneously x 1 dose: The client’s blood glucose is significantly elevated at 250 mg/dL and they are showing signs of hyperglycemia (polyuria, weight loss, nausea). Administering insulin addresses an immediate metabolic imbalance and helps prevent complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices

• Apply dressing to the foot wound: Although the wound requires care, it is not the most urgent issue. Delaying insulin administration in a hyperglycemic client with systemic symptoms could increase the risk of metabolic crisis. Wound care can follow stabilization.
• Schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist: While ophthalmologic evaluation is essential for clients with diabetes, this is a non-urgent referral and can be scheduled after acute needs like hyperglycemia and wound care are addressed.
• Consult an outpatient wound care specialist: Coordinating specialized wound care is important for infection control and healing, but it is not time-sensitive. The priority is addressing the elevated blood glucose level first to stabilize the client's condition.