A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has hyperthyroidism (Graves disease). Which of the following serum laboratory findings should the nurse expect to be below the expected reference range?

Choice A reason: Insulin injected into the thigh is not the most rapidly absorbed. The abdomen is the preferred site for insulin injection, as it has the fastest and most consistent absorption rate. The thigh, arm, and butock have slower and more variable absorption rates12.

Choice B reason: The botle of insulin should not be shaken before withdrawing the medication. Shaking can damage the insulin molecules and affect their potency and effectiveness. Instead, the botle should be gently rolled between the palms to mix the insulin evenly13.

Choice C reason: Lantus insulin should not be used immediately before each meal. Lantus is a long-acting insulin that provides a steady basal level of insulin for 24 hours. It should be taken once a day at the same time every day, regardless of meals. Humalog is a rapid-acting insulin that can be used immediately before each meal to cover the postprandial glucose spikes14.

Choice D reason: Unopened vials of insulin should be kept in the refrigerator until needed. This can help preserve their quality and potency until their expiration date. Opened vials of insulin can be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days, depending on the type and brand

Choice A reason: Providing emotional support is important for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as the condition can affect their quality of life and mental health. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as it does not address the immediate physical needs of the client.

Choice B reason: Evaluating fluid and electrolyte levels is the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as the client is at risk of dehydration, hypovolemia, and electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea, vomiting, and poor oral intake. The nurse should monitor the client’s vital signs, urine output, weight, skin turgor, mucous membranes, and laboratory values such as serum sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine.

Choice C reason: Promoting physical mobility is beneficial for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as it can help prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and pressure ulcers. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as the client may have abdominal pain, fatigue, and weakness that limit their mobility. The nurse should encourage rest and provide comfort measures such as positioning, heat therapy, and analgesics.

Choice D reason: Reviewing stress factors that can cause disease exacerbation is helpful for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as stress can trigger or worsen inflammation in the bowel. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as it does not address the immediate physical needs of the client. The nurse should teach the client about stress management techniques and refer them to appropriate resources such as counseling or support groups.