The nurse is teaching patients about self-injection of insulin. Which statement is true regarding injection sites?

Choice A rationale: During an illness, the body is under stress, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels. To prevent dehydration and ketosis, it is critical to continue to consume fluids and carbohydrates, even if vomiting. Small, frequent sips of liquids containing electrolytes and sugar are often recommended to maintain hydration and energy.
Choice B rationale: Illness, stress, and dehydration can significantly alter blood glucose levels. Monitoring blood glucose at least every 4 hours allows for timely adjustments to insulin or oral medications, helping to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia. This frequent monitoring is a cornerstone of safe sick day management for clients with diabetes.
Choice C rationale: Even when vomiting, clients with type 1 diabetes must continue to take insulin to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening. The dose may need adjustment based on frequent blood glucose monitoring, but it should not be discontinued. Clients with type 2 diabetes on oral agents may need a temporary switch to insulin.
Choice D rationale: Exercise can be beneficial for managing blood glucose, but during an acute illness, it is not recommended. The body's energy is needed to fight the infection. Intense physical activity can also increase the risk of dehydration and, in some cases, can paradoxically raise blood glucose levels, particularly if the client is already ill.

Choice A rationale: Carrying a piece of hard candy is a proactive and safe strategy for managing hypoglycemia during exercise. A hard candy provides a rapid source of glucose, which can quickly elevate blood sugar levels if they begin to drop. This demonstrates an understanding of how to prevent and treat exercise-induced hypoglycemia, a common concern for individuals with diabetes.
Choice B rationale: Having emergency money is a prudent measure to manage unexpected situations related to diabetes, such as needing to purchase food or glucose tablets if an episode of hypoglycemia occurs. This action indicates a level of preparedness and understanding of the potential risks associated with physical activity when managing diabetes, showcasing good self-management skills.
Choice C rationale: Skipping breakfast before morning exercise, such as a soccer game, is dangerous and indicates a significant knowledge deficit. This behavior dramatically increases the risk of exercise-induced hypoglycemia because the body's glucose stores are already low from an overnight fast, and the added energy expenditure from exercise can deplete them further, leading to a hypoglycemic episode.
Choice D rationale: Playing in a soccer game after dinner is a safe practice. It demonstrates an understanding of timing exercise relative to meals. The meal provides a source of carbohydrates, which helps to maintain stable blood glucose levels during the physical activity, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. This is a well-managed approach to combining physical activity with diabetes care.