The nurse is teaching a patient with diabetes mellitus how to differentiate between hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis. The patient demonstrates understanding of hypoglycemia by stating they will check their blood glucose when experiencing which of the following symptoms?

Choice A reason: While acute pain is a possibility in peripheral neuropathy, infection poses a more serious risk. The sensory deficits in peripheral neuropathy can lead to unnoticed injuries and subsequent infections, especially in the lower extremities.

Choice B reason: Infection is a major risk in patients with peripheral neuropathy due to the loss of sensation, which can result in unnoticed injuries that can become infected. Additionally, high blood sugar levels in diabetes can impair the immune response, making infections more likely and harder to heal.

Choice A reason: Encouraging the patient to rest in bed for most of the day may lead to further deconditioning and muscle weakness. While rest is important, balancing activity and rest is more beneficial for managing fatigue in chronic anemia.

Choice B reason: Administering a high-protein diet including caffeinated beverages to increase energy levels is not recommended. While a high-protein diet can support energy and muscle strength, caffeine may cause jitteriness and disrupt sleep, which can exacerbate fatigue.

Choice C reason: Assisting the patient with ADLs and encouraging frequent rest periods is appropriate for managing fatigue, weakness, and activity intolerance in chronic anemia. This approach helps the patient conserve energy while maintaining some level of activity to prevent deconditioning.

Choice D reason: Providing supplemental oxygen via face mask during vigorous exercises is not appropriate. Patients with chronic anemia should avoid vigorous exercises that could exacerbate fatigue and weakness. The focus should be on moderate, manageable activities with adequate rest.