A 22-year-old female client is brought to the emergency department by her mother after the client became dizzy and fell. The mother says that the client has been away at college and is home for winter break. The client's mother is greatly concerned because while her daughter has always been thin and athletic, she has never seen her so skinny and emaciated. The client responds by telling her mother, "That is not true. You keep trying to force food down my throat even though it is obvious that I have so much weight to lose!"

Exhibits

The client is resting in bed and cooperative with her mother at her bedside.

Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.

Choice A rationale

Reducing the infant’s fruit intake for 24 hours is not the best approach in this situation. While certain fruits can cause diarrhea, the parent reports no signs of watery stools. Therefore, this intervention may not address the issue of the red and raw diaper area.

Choice B rationale

Cleaning with soap and water at each diaper change can actually worsen the condition. Soap can dry out the skin and disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, potentially leading to more irritation. It’s generally recommended to use water and a soft cloth, or a gentle non-soap cleanser, to clean the diaper area.

Choice C rationale

Changing the child’s diaper more frequently is the most appropriate intervention. A wet or dirty diaper can irritate the skin, leading to diaper rash. By changing the diaper more often, the skin is kept clean and dry, which can help the rash heal.

Choice D rationale

Applying lotion with each diaper change is not typically recommended for diaper rash. Some lotions can contain fragrances or other ingredients that can further irritate the rash. Instead, a barrier cream or ointment, such as one containing zinc oxide, is often recommended.

Choice A rationale

Resuming normal physical activity is not the appropriate action when a patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus experiences increased thirst, an early sign of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). Physical activity can increase blood glucose levels, which could exacerbate the condition.

Choice B rationale

Administering a dose of regular insulin as prescribed is the most appropriate action to address increased thirst in a patient with type 1 diabetes and early signs of DKA. Elevated blood sugar levels are the cause of the increased thirst, and insulin helps lower blood sugar levels.

Choice C rationale

Consuming electrolyte fluid replacements is not the appropriate action when a patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus experiences increased thirst, an early sign of DKA. While hydration is important, it does not address the underlying issue of high blood sugar levels.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring urine output over the next 24 hours is not the appropriate action when a patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus experiences increased thirst, an early sign of DKA. While it is important to monitor urine output in patients with diabetes, it does not address the underlying issue of high blood sugar levels.