Which action would the nurse take first for a patient with a tracheostomy who appears anxious and is having difficulty in coughing up thick respiratory secretion?

A. A total laryngectomy involves the removal of the larynx, which can impact both the ability to smell and taste. This is due to the altered airflow and the loss of normal sensory processes. Explaining this to the patient is an appropriate response.
B. While offering to provide preferred foods may seem empathetic, it does not address the underlying issue, which is the loss of taste and smell due to the surgery.
C. Telling the client that hospital food is often tasteless does not address the patient's specific condition and may seem dismissive of their concerns.
D. While it might be helpful for the family to bring food, the nurse should first address the reason for the altered taste perception and educate the patient accordingly.

A. Polyuria is typically a symptom of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia. When blood glucose is elevated, the kidneys attempt to excrete the excess glucose, leading to increased urination.
B. Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is a common sign of hypoglycemia due to the body's stress response to low blood sugar. The release of adrenaline (epinephrine) can cause a rapid heart rate.
C. Blurred vision can occur with hypoglycemia because low glucose levels can affect the function of the retina and cause vision changes. This can resolve once the blood glucose level is normalized.
D. Polydipsia (excessive thirst) is more commonly seen in hyperglycemia, as high blood glucose leads to dehydration due to increased urination.
E. Moist, clammy skin is a classic sign of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar drops too low, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can cause sweating and clammy skin.