The nurse is caring for a patient with diabetes who presents with a hyperglycemic emergency. The patient's lab values are in the chart below. Which healthcare provider's (HCP) order will the nurse implement?
Administer intravenous normal saline 300 mL/hour
Administer regular insulin 20 units subcutaneously
Start bicarbonate infusion intravenously
Administer potassium chloride 40 mEq orally
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Administering intravenous normal saline at 300 mL/hour is the appropriate initial intervention for a patient presenting with a hyperglycemic emergency. Fluid replacement is crucial to correct dehydration and improve circulatory volume, which will help improve renal perfusion and facilitate the excretion of excess glucose and ketones.
Choice B reason: Administering regular insulin 20 units subcutaneously is not the immediate priority. Intravenous insulin is preferred in a hyperglycemic emergency to ensure rapid and effective lowering of blood glucose levels.
Choice C reason: Starting a bicarbonate infusion intravenously is not indicated unless there is severe acidosis (pH < 7.0) or the patient is in shock. The pH of 7.20, while low, can typically be corrected with fluid and insulin therapy.
Choice D reason: Administering potassium chloride 40 mEq orally is not necessary at this point. The potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range, and potassium should be monitored and replaced as needed during ongoing treatment, especially when insulin therapy is initiated.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering lipid injectable emulsion with TPN every day based on albumin results is not the priority intervention. While lipid emulsions may be part of TPN, the focus should be on maintaining aseptic technique to prevent infection.
Choice B reason: Disconnecting IV tubing and adding regular insulin to the TPN bag based on sliding scale results is not appropriate. Insulin should be administered separately, and aseptic technique must be maintained to prevent contamination.
Choice C reason: Maintaining aseptic technique when changing tubing or the parenteral nutrition bag is crucial for preventing infection. Patients receiving TPN through a central venous access device are at high risk for infections, and strict aseptic technique is essential.
Choice D reason: Administering dextrose infusion through separate tubing three hours before discontinuing TPN is not a standard practice. The focus should be on proper administration and infection control practices.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Large, bulky stools are not uncommon after a barium enema, as the barium can cause temporary changes in stool consistency and volume. This finding would not necessarily warrant immediate reporting to the healthcare provider unless there are other concerning symptoms.
Choice B reason: Three formed stools in eight hours may indicate increased bowel activity but is not an unusual finding after a barium enema. This would not typically be a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.
Choice C reason: Streaks of blood present in the stool is a concerning finding that should be reported to the healthcare provider. The presence of blood may indicate mucosal injury, inflammation, or other complications that need to be addressed promptly.
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