Which action should the nurse take when repositioning the patient who has just had a laminectomy and discectomy?

Choice A rationale

Incisions into the renal pelvis for stone removal describe open surgical methods, not ultrasonic lithotripsy. This invasive approach is reserved for cases where less invasive techniques fail or stones are inaccessible through standard methods. Lithotripsy avoids direct incisions, utilizing external energy for stone fragmentation.

Choice B rationale

Kidney incisions for stone removal align with nephrolithotomy procedures rather than ultrasonic lithotripsy. This alternative represents open surgical intervention, distinct from non-invasive lithotripsy technologies. Lithotripsy eliminates stones using sound waves or lasers, reducing surgical risks and recovery times.

Choice C rationale

Ultrasonic lithotripsy employs high-frequency sound waves to break stones into small fragments. This minimally invasive method allows natural passage through the urinary tract or facilitates removal via catheterization. It reduces complications compared to invasive surgeries and is highly effective for calculi management.

Choice D rationale

Laser fragmentation techniques differ from ultrasonic lithotripsy, involving concentrated light energy to break stones. While both are minimally invasive, ultrasonic methods utilize sound waves rather than light energy for disintegration. This technical distinction outlines lithotripsy's use of external sound waves for stone management.

Choice A rationale

Metformin primarily increases peripheral insulin sensitivity, particularly in muscle and adipose tissues, facilitating glucose uptake and utilization. It inhibits hepatic glucose production through AMPK activation, reducing gluconeogenesis. Metformin also improves lipid profiles and insulin resistance without promoting insulin secretion, which minimizes the risk of hypoglycemia. Its actions target metabolic pathways, enhancing cellular glucose management for type 2 diabetes control.

Choice B rationale

Metformin does not stimulate pancreatic insulin release. It acts independently of insulin production mechanisms, focusing on improving peripheral sensitivity and reducing hepatic glucose output. Drugs like sulfonylureas target beta cells for insulin release, unlike metformin, which avoids direct engagement with the pancreas, minimizing hypoglycemia risks associated with excessive insulin secretion.

Choice C rationale

Stimulating glucose uptake in skeletal muscles is a partial outcome of improved insulin sensitivity induced by metformin. However, metformin’s mechanism extends beyond this, involving significant hepatic effects. It does not directly stimulate glucose uptake as a sole action; rather, it enhances overall metabolic efficiency and glucose management through multiple pathways.

Choice D rationale

Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production rather than increasing it. It inhibits gluconeogenesis by activating AMPK, suppressing the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. This inhibition aids in reducing fasting glucose levels, which are often elevated in type 2 diabetes. The opposite action described contradicts its therapeutic role in managing hyperglycemia effectively.