Which is the best goal when planning nursing care for an older client diagnosed with diabetes mellitus?

Choice A reason: Teaching the client alternative comfort measures is not the best recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may imply that the client's pain is not taken seriously or that the nurse is reluctant to provide pain relief. The nurse would teach the client alternative comfort measures, such as relaxation techniques, distraction, or massage, as a supplement to the pain medication, not as a substitute.

Choice B reason: Telling the client that it is too soon for pain medication is not a good recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may make the client feel dismissed, ignored, or judged. The nurse would follow the prescribed pain medication schedule, but also consider the client's individual needs and preferences, and adjust the dosage or frequency as needed, with the doctor's approval.

Choice C reason: Administering the pain medication as requested by the client is not a safe recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may cause overdose, addiction, or adverse effects. The nurse would administer the pain medication as prescribed by the doctor, and monitor the client's response, side effects, and vital signs.

Choice D reason: Validating the pain with other assessment data is the best recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it shows respect, empathy, and professionalism. The nurse would acknowledge the client's pain, ask about the location, intensity, quality, and duration of the pain, and use a pain scale or a pain assessment tool to measure the pain. The nurse would also check for any physical or behavioral signs of pain, such as grimacing, guarding, or restlessness. The nurse would document the pain assessment and report any changes or concerns to the doctor.

Choice A reason: The classic signs of elevated glucose levels, polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia are rarely present in older adults is true because older adults may have impaired thirst sensation, reduced appetite, or altered renal function that can mask these symptoms. They may also have other chronic conditions or medications that can affect their glucose levels or urine output.

Choice B reason: Older adults tend to metabolize glucose at a faster rate than younger adults is false because older adults usually have a slower metabolism and a reduced insulin sensitivity that can impair their glucose regulation. They may also have less muscle mass and more fat tissue that can affect their glucose utilization.

Choice C reason: Fingerstick glucose monitoring is inaccurate in older adults is false because fingerstick glucose monitoring is a reliable and convenient method to measure blood glucose levels in older adults, as long as they follow the proper technique and calibration. They may also benefit from using devices that have larger displays, voice output, or memory functions.

Choice D reason: There is a higher tolerance for elevated levels of circulating glucose in older adults is false because elevated levels of circulating glucose can cause serious complications in older adults, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, or infections. Older adults may have a higher risk of developing these complications due to their age, comorbidities, or frailty.