During a change-of-shift report, a night shift nurse informs the day shift nurse that a newly admitted client was disoriented and combative during the night. Which of the following actions should the day shift nurse take?

A. Instructing the client about the importance of regular medical appointments is important but not the priority because it is a secondary prevention strategy that aims to detect and treat any complications or changes in the client's condition early. The client should have regular follow-up visits with an endocrinologist, a diabetes educator, an ophthalmologist, a podiatrist, a dentist, and other health care providers as needed.

B. Encouraging the client to participate in daily exercise is important but not the priority because it is a tertiary prevention strategy that aims to reduce disability and improve quality of life for clients with chronic conditions. Exercise can help lower blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce cardiovascular risk factors, enhance mood, and promote weight management for clients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The client should consult with their health care provider before starting an exercise program and follow safety guidelines such as checking blood glucose levels before and after exercise, wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, carrying a source of fast-acting carbohydrate, and staying hydrated.

C. Explaining proper foot care techniques to the client is important but not the priority because it is a tertiary prevention strategy that aims to prevent or minimize complications such as foot ulcers, infections, and amputations for clients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Foot care includes inspecting feet daily for any injuries or abnormalities, washing feet with mild soap and warm water, drying feet thoroughly especially between toes, applying moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking, trimming toenails straight across and filing edges smooth, wearing clean cotton socks and well-fitting shoes, avoiding walking barefoot or exposing feet to extreme temperatures or pressure, and seeking medical attention for any foot problems.

D. Ensuring that the client understands the medication regimen is the nurse's priority because type 1 diabetes mellitus requires lifelong insulin therapy to maintain blood glucose levels within normal range and prevent complications such as ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, and organ damage. The client needs to know how to administer insulin injections, monitor blood glucose levels, adjust insulin doses according to carbohydrate intake and physical activity, recognize and treat signs and symptoms of hypo- and hyperglycemia, and store insulin properly.

A.PRN (as needed) restraint prescriptions are not appropriate because restraints should only be used in situations where there is an immediate need for safety and all other methods of de-escalation have failed. Restraint use must be based on a current assessment of the client's behavior, and a specific prescription should be obtained each time restraints are applied.

B.Restraints should be removed every 2 hours to assess the client's skin, circulation, and range of motion, and to provide an opportunity for toileting, hydration, and movement. Prolonged use without breaks increases the risk of complications such as skin breakdown or impaired circulation.

C.Attach the restraint to the bed's side rails. Restraints should not be attached to the bed's side rails because it can lead to serious injuries if the client attempts to climb over the side rails while restrained. Instead, restraints should be attached to specific restraint ties or straps that are part of the bed frame.

D.The client's condition, including circulation, skin integrity, and behavior, should be monitored and documented every 15 minutes while restraints are in use. This frequent assessment helps ensure the client’s safety and comfort, and allows for early identification of potential complications.