Individuals with diabetes are also at increased risk for developing infection due to hyperglycemia related to microvascular, macrovascular, and neuropathic complications due to:
Excess protein in the blood provides an optimal environment for some pathogens, allowing rapid proliferation.
Excess glucose in blood provides an optimal environment for some pathogens, allowing rapid proliferation.
They produce less White Blood cells.
White Blood Cell destruction and high levels of glycosylated hemoglobin prevent release of oxygen to the tissues.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While protein metabolism can be affected in diabetes, excess protein in the blood is not the primary mechanism increasing infection risk. Pathogens generally thrive more in high-glucose environments rather than high-protein conditions.
Choice B reason: Excess glucose in the blood creates an optimal environment for many pathogens to proliferate rapidly. High blood sugar levels weaken the immune system by impairing the function of white blood cells, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. This is particularly significant in the microvascular and macrovascular systems where the blood vessels can become damaged, further compromising immune response.
Choice C reason: Diabetic individuals do not necessarily produce fewer white blood cells. However, the functionality of these cells can be impaired by hyperglycemia, reducing their ability to fight off infections effectively.
Choice D reason: While high levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) indicate poor blood sugar control over a long period, the destruction of white blood cells is not the primary reason for increased infection risk. The issue lies more with the impaired function of white blood cells and the conducive environment that excess glucose provides for pathogens.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A low blood glucose level is not a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In fact, DKA is characterized by high blood glucose levels due to a lack of insulin, which leads to the breakdown of fats for energy and the production of ketones.
Choice B reason: Ketonuria, or the presence of ketones in the urine, is a sign of DKA. It occurs when the body breaks down fats for energy instead of using glucose, leading to the production of ketones, which are then excreted in the urine.
Choice C reason: Dehydration is a common sign of DKA. High blood glucose levels lead to increased urination, which causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes, resulting in dehydration.
Choice D reason: Kussmaul respirations are a sign of DKA. These are deep, labored breathing patterns that occur as the body attempts to compensate for the metabolic acidosis caused by high levels of ketones in the blood.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While white blood cells (WBC) are essential for fighting infections, increased WBCs in the blood is not the reason why a minor injury can cause major complications in individuals with diabetes. In fact, diabetes can impair the function of WBCs, making it harder to fight infections.
Choice B reason: Edema, or swelling, can occur in individuals with diabetes, especially in the lower extremities. However, it is not the primary reason why minor injuries can lead to severe complications. Edema can contribute to discomfort and further complications, but it is not the root cause.
Choice C reason: Increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues would generally be beneficial for healing. However, individuals with diabetes often have impaired blood flow, not increased blood flow. This impairment can hinder the healing process and lead to complications.
Choice D reason: The major reason why a minor injury can cause significant complications in individuals with diabetes is due to decreased blood flow to the tissues. Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves (peripheral neuropathy), leading to poor circulation and a reduced ability to sense injuries. This decreased blood flow can prevent adequate delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, leading to slow healing, increased risk of infection, and in severe cases, gangrene (tissue death). Without proper blood flow, even minor injuries can become serious and may require medical intervention, including possible amputation to prevent the spread of infection.
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