The nurse obtains a fingerstick blood glucose using a bedside glucose meter for a client with a prescribed sliding scale insulin protocol. The meter indicates 56 mg/dL (3.12 mmol/L). Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Document the glucose reading in the electronic medical record (EMR) as the only action needed.
Collect a blood specimen by venipuncture to send to the laboratory for serum glucose analysis.
Prepare the prescribed dose of rapid-acting insulin from the sliding scale instructions.
Give the client six ounces (180 mL) of non-diet carbonated soda and instruct the client to drink it entirely.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Documentation is important but not the priority when the client is hypoglycemic. Immediate treatment is required to prevent complications.
Choice B reason: Sending a specimen for lab confirmation delays treatment and is not necessary when hypoglycemia is confirmed by a reliable bedside meter.
Choice C reason: Administering insulin would worsen hypoglycemia and is contraindicated at this glucose level.
Choice D reason: Administering a fast-acting carbohydrate is the first-line intervention for hypoglycemia. Non-diet soda provides rapid glucose absorption to correct the low blood sugar.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: APTT is essential for monitoring the anticoagulant effect of heparin. Regular checks help ensure therapeutic levels are maintained while minimizing bleeding risk.
Choice B reason: Electrocardiographic changes, particularly ST-segment resolution and T-wave inversion, are key indicators of successful reperfusion. Continuous ECG monitoring helps detect re-occlusion or arrhythmias.
Choice C reason: Recurrence of chest pain may signal failed reperfusion or new ischemic events. It is a critical symptom that requires immediate evaluation.
Choice D reason: PT is primarily used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin. It is less relevant in this context and does not provide actionable data for heparin adjustment.
Choice E reason: The groin access site, typically used for catheter-based interventions, must be monitored for signs of bleeding, hematoma, or infection, especially post-thrombolysis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Documenting and monitoring are important, but delaying intervention in the presence of signs of compartment syndrome can lead to irreversible damage.
Choice B reason: Releasing traction without provider direction may be unsafe and is not the nurse’s first independent action.
Choice C reason: Notifying the healthcare provider immediately is critical. Severe pain, discoloration, and blanching suggest compromised circulation, possibly compartment syndrome, which requires urgent evaluation and intervention.
Choice D reason: Administering pain medication may mask symptoms and delay necessary treatment. Pain unrelieved by medication is a red flag for ischemia.
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