Which of the following clients would the nurse question an order for labetalol 50 mg PO?

Choice A reason: Diet cola PO is not an appropriate recommendation for a client with a blood glucose of 30, because diet cola does not contain any sugar and will not raise the blood glucose level. Moreover, the client is lethargic and unable to follow commands, which means they may have difficulty swallowing and may aspirate the liquid.

Choice B reason: Dextrose 50% IV is a potential recommendation for a client with a blood glucose of 30, because it can rapidly increase the blood glucose level and reverse the symptoms of hypoglycemia. However, the nurse is unable to get an IV line started on the client, which makes this option impossible.

Choice C reason: Glucagon IM is the best recommendation for a client with a blood glucose of 30, because it can stimulate the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream and raise the blood glucose level. Glucagon can be given intramuscularly or subcutaneously, which does not require an IV access. Glucagon is usually given as an emergency treatment for severe hypoglycemia when the client is unconscious or unable to swallow.

Choice D reason: Insulin glargine SQ is not an appropriate recommendation for a client with a blood glucose of 30, because insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin that lowers the blood glucose level. Giving insulin to a client with hypoglycemia can worsen their condition and cause coma or death. ⁹

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is a safe and effective medication for treating hypertension in pregnancy. Labetalol is a beta-blocker that lowers blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and the force of contraction. It does not affect the blood flow to the placenta or the fetus.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is not contraindicated for smokers. However, smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and should be discouraged by the nurse. Smoking can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and the risk of blood clots.

Choice C reason: This is correct because labetalol is contraindicated for clients with a history of uncontrolled asthma. Labetalol is a non-selective beta-blocker that can block the beta-2 receptors in the lungs and cause bronchoconstriction. This can worsen asthma symptoms and trigger an asthma attack.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because labetalol is a suitable medication for clients who had a myocardial infarction. Labetalol can prevent further damage to the heart muscle by reducing the oxygen demand and the workload of the heart. It can also prevent arrhythmias and angina.