The newly diagnosed patient with type 2 diabetes has been prescribed metformin (Glucophage). What should the nurse tell the patient to best explain how this medication works?

Choice A rationale: This is a normal value, indicating normal renal function. The client does not have any signs of kidney damage or impairment.

Choice B rationale: This is an elevated value, indicating an infection or inflammation in the body. Acute appendicitis is a common cause of increased white blood cells, as the appendix becomes inflamed and infected. This finding requires immediate follow-up to monitor the client's condition and prevent complications such as perforation or peritonitis.

Choice C rationale: This is a high value, indicating impaired renal function or dehydration. The client may have decreased urine output due to vomiting and fluid loss, or may have underlying kidney problems. This finding requires immediate follow-up to assess the client's hydration status and renal function, and to provide appropriate fluid and electrolyte replacement.

Choice D rationale: This is a sign of peritoneal irritation, which may indicate that the appendix has ruptured or is close to rupturing. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention to remove the appendix and prevent sepsis and shock.

Choice E rationale: This is a low value, indicating hypokalemia or low potassium levels in the blood. The client may have lost potassium due to vomiting and fluid loss, or may have underlying electrolyte imbalances. This finding requires immediate follow-up to assess the client's cardiac function and muscle strength, and to provide appropriate potassium supplementation.

Choice F rationale: These are common symptoms of acute appendicitis, as the inflammation and infection of the appendix cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms do not require immediate follow-up, but they should be managed with antiemetics and fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Choice A rationale: Altered consciousness is a hallmark feature of delirium, where individuals may experience fluctuations in awareness.

Choice B rationale: Delirium typically has an acute onset rather than symptoms developing over months to years.

Choice C rationale: Delirium often has a fluctuating course, rather than a consistent progressive decline.

Choice D rationale: Delirium can result from various factors including fluid/electrolyte imbalances or infections.

Choice E rationale: While these conditions might contribute to cognitive impairments, they are not typically associated with delirium.

Choice F rationale: Delirium can affect judgment, but it's not a defining feature.

Choice G rationale: While memory impairments can be seen in delirium, they're often accompanied by altered consciousness and fluctuations in awareness.