Which patient statement indicates a need for further education regarding medications after a bilateral adrenalectomy?

Choice A reason: Last eye examination was 18 months ago is not a finding that requires immediate attention from the health care provider. However, the nurse should remind the patient of the importance of regular eye examinations, as diabetes can increase the risk of eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that patients with type 2 diabetes have a comprehensive eye examination at least once every two years¹.

Choice B reason: Patient states they are scheduled for a CT scan with contrast dye the next day is a finding that should be promptly discussed with the health care provider. Metformin is a medication that lowers the blood glucose level by reducing the liver's production of glucose and increasing the cells' sensitivity to insulin. Metformin can interact with contrast dye, which is a substance that is injected into the veins to enhance the visibility of organs and tissues in imaging tests, such as CT scans. Contrast dye can impair the kidney function and increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition where the blood becomes too acidic due to the accumulation of lactic acid. Lactic acidosis can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and breathing difficulties. To prevent this complication, the ADA recommends that patients stop taking metformin at the time of or before the imaging procedure, and resume it 48 hours after the procedure, only if the kidney function is normal².

Choice C reason: Hemoglobin A1C level is 7.9% is not a finding that needs urgent discussion with the health care provider. Hemoglobin A1C is a test that measures the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. It reflects how well the diabetes is controlled over time. The ADA recommends that most patients with type 2 diabetes aim for a hemoglobin A1C level of less than 7%, as this can reduce the risk of diabetes complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye damage. A hemoglobin A1C level of 7.9% indicates that the patient's blood glucose level is slightly above the target range, and may need some adjustment in the medication, diet, or exercise plan. However, this is not an emergency situation, and the nurse can review the patient's self-monitoring records, medication adherence, and lifestyle factors, and provide education and support as needed.

Choice D reason: Patient has questions about the prescribed diet is not a finding that warrants immediate communication with the health care provider. However, the nurse should address the patient's questions and concerns, and provide clear and consistent information about the dietary recommendations for type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet for type 2 diabetes should include a variety of foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats. The patient should also limit the intake of added sugars, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium. The nurse can help the patient plan their meals and snacks, and use tools such as carbohydrate counting, portion control, or the plate method to balance their food choices and blood glucose levels..

Choice A reason: Eating a piece of pizza is not a good option for the student. Pizza is a complex carbohydrate that contains fat and protein, which can delay the absorption of glucose and cause unpredictable blood sugar levels. The student needs a simple carbohydrate that can quickly raise her blood sugar level, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or candy.

Choice B reason: Taking an extra dose of rapid-acting insulin is a dangerous option for the student. Insulin lowers the blood sugar level, and the student already has symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as headache, vision changes, and anxiety. Taking more insulin can worsen her condition and cause seizures, coma, or death.

Choice C reason: Eating 15 g of simple carbohydrates is the best option for the student. Simple carbohydrates are easily digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, and can raise the blood sugar level within 15 minutes. The student should eat 15 g of simple carbohydrates, such as four glucose tablets, half a cup of fruit juice, or three pieces of hard candy, and then check her blood sugar level if possible.

Choice D reason: Drinking some diet pop is not a helpful option for the student. Diet pop does not contain any sugar or calories, and will not affect the blood sugar level. The student needs a source of glucose to treat her hypoglycemia, and diet pop will not provide that.