A client has a history of atrial fibrillation and is taking an oral anticoagulant. The client has been newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism and placed on levothyroxine.
What assessment should the nurse prioritize?

The nurse should question the administration of human insulin to this client because they do not need exogenous insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Human insulin is indicated for clients who have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes that cannot be controlled by oral antidiabetic agents, diet, or exercise.

Choice A is wrong because a client who has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes may need human insulin to control their blood glucose levels during pregnancy, as oral antidiabetic agents are contraindicated.

Choice B is wrong because a client with type 2 diabetes, controlled with oral antidiabetic agents, who has a systemic infection may need human insulin to manage their blood glucose levels during periods of stress, as infection can increase blood glucose levels and impair the action of oral antidiabetic agents.

Choice D is wrong because a client who has been living with type 1 diabetes for 20 years needs human insulin to replace the endogenous insulin that their pancreas cannot produce.

The correct answer is c. The importance of consuming adequate amounts of water.

Rationale for Choice A:

• Statement:The need to monitor for systemic side effects.
• Rationale:It's not accurate to prioritize monitoring for systemic side effects when teaching a patient about psyllium (Metamucil).Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative that primarily acts within the gastrointestinal tract,and systemic side effects are rare.While it's essential to be aware of potential side effects,focusing on them during initial teaching might cause unnecessary anxiety.

Rationale for Choice B:

• Statement:The need to use the dry form of Metamucil to prevent cramping.
• Rationale:This statement is incorrect.It's generally recommended to mix psyllium with water or another liquid before ingestion.Consuming the dry form can increase the risk of choking and might not adequately hydrate stool.

Rationale for Choice C:

• Statement:The importance of consuming adequate amounts of water.
• Rationale:This is the most crucial information to emphasize when teaching about psyllium.Psyllium works by absorbing water and forming a bulky gel that softens stool and promotes bowel movements.Without sufficient water intake,psyllium can cause constipation to worsen or lead to intestinal obstruction.

Rationale for Choice D:

• Statement:The onset of action of 30 to 60 minutes after administration.
• Rationale:This statement is inaccurate.Psyllium is not a fast-acting laxative.It typically takes 12-72 hours to produce a bowel movement.Informing patients about the expected time frame for results is essential to manage expectations and prevent unnecessary medication overuse.