A client diagnosed with glaucoma receives a new prescription for dorzolamide. Prior to administering the medication, the nurse should review the electronic medical record for which allergy?

A. Wear closed-toe shoes that are comfortable and fit well: Proper footwear is essential to prevent foot injuries, ulcers, and infections in clients with diabetes, especially because neuropathy can reduce sensation. This response indicates understanding of a key self-care measure.

B. Check blood sugar levels every four to six hours every day: Blood glucose monitoring frequency should be individualized based on treatment regimen, activity, and glycemic control. A blanket schedule every four to six hours may not be appropriate for all clients.

C. Restrict alcoholic beverages to no more than 1 to 2 per week: Alcohol guidelines should be individualized, and alcohol can affect blood glucose unpredictably. Limiting intake is important, but this statement alone does not fully reflect diabetes management understanding.

D. Obtain an A1C blood test every year to monitor glucose control: The recommended frequency for A1C testing is usually every 3 months when starting treatment or if therapy changes, and every 6 months for stable control.

A. Notify the social worker the client is awake: The social worker is already attempting to contact family. Awakening does not require immediate notification; the priority is client care and stabilization.

B. Explain all procedures: As the client becomes more alert, clear explanations reduce anxiety, promote cooperation, and support orientation, especially in the ICU environment.

C. Increase the propofol infusion: Increasing sedation without clinical indication may mask neurological changes and hinder assessment. Sedative adjustments should be based on prescribed parameters and provider orders.

D. Consider extubating the client: Extubation is only considered when specific respiratory and hemodynamic criteria are met. Waking up does not automatically mean the client is ready to be extubated.

E. Have the client sign consent forms for procedures already performed: Consent must be obtained prior to procedures. Once completed, retroactive consent is not valid or ethical.

F. Assess the client’s pain: Pain assessment is essential in postoperative and trauma patients, particularly once the client is able to communicate.

G. Determine the client’s decision-making ability: As the client becomes more awake, assessing cognitive status and ability to participate in care decisions is appropriate and supports autonomy.

H. Decrease the noise and light stimuli in the room as much as possible: Minimizing environmental stimuli helps reduce delirium risk, improves comfort, and promotes healing in critically ill patients.