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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Ketoacidosis is not a typical complication of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS) treatment. HHS usually occurs without significant ketoacidosis, and the focus is on managing hyperglycemia and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Pulmonary edema is a potential complication of rapid fluid replacement therapy. The increased fluid volume can overwhelm the heart's ability to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Choice C reason: Atelectasis is not a common complication of HHS treatment. It is more related to lung collapse or infection rather than fluid or insulin therapy.
Choice D reason: Hypoglycemia is a potential complication of continuous insulin infusion. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to prevent blood sugar from dropping too low during treatment.
Choice E reason: Hypokalemia is a potential complication of insulin therapy. Insulin promotes the uptake of potassium into cells, which can reduce serum potassium levels. Monitoring and managing potassium levels is important during HHS treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Performing weekly occult blood testing with gastric analysis is not typically required for managing IBD at home. This intervention is more invasive and usually performed under specific medical instructions rather than as a routine home care intervention.
Choice B reason: Discussing nutritional management with the inclusion of a high-protein, high-vitamin diet is crucial for patients with IBD. These patients often experience malnutrition due to poor absorption and increased nutritional needs during flare-ups. A high-protein, high-vitamin diet can help promote healing, maintain muscle mass, and prevent deficiencies.
Choice C reason: Leaving the ostomy site open to air for an hour each day when changing the appliance is not recommended. Ostomy sites need to be kept clean and protected to prevent infection and skin irritation.
Choice D reason: Instructing the patient and family on how to give medications through their G-tube is not relevant if the patient has an ileostomy. The focus should be on ostomy care and management
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