A client who has atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin therapy.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

Choice B rationale:
Giving the wife a straw to help facilitate the client's drinking is not the most appropriate action in this situation. The client's facial paralysis and inability to move his left side could be indicative of a possible stroke or cerebral vascular accident (CVA). Before attempting to give the client fluids, it is essential to assess his swallowing reflex to prevent aspiration and ensure safety. Using a straw may not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the wife and carefully giving the client small sips of water without assessing the swallowing reflex can be risky. If the client has impaired swallowing, this action could lead to aspiration and further complications. Assessing the client's ability to swallow is the priority to ensure safe oral intake.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining thickening powder before providing any more fluids is premature without first assessing the client's swallowing ability. Thickened liquids may be necessary if the client has dysphagia, but the nurse should assess the client's condition and consult with the healthcare provider before making this decision. Assessing the swallowing reflex is the first step in determining the appropriate course of action.

Choice A rationale:
Correcting electrolytes that are out of normal range is a crucial goal of therapy for this client. In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the body’s cells are unable to use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin. This leads to the breakdown of fat for energy, producing ketones as a by-product. Ketones are acidic and can cause the blood’s pH to decrease, leading to metabolic acidosis. This process also leads to an increased production and excretion of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. Therefore, correcting these electrolyte imbalances is a key goal of therapy.
Choice B rationale:
While promoting oxygenation to tissues is generally important in critical care, it is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. The primary issues in DKA are metabolic in nature, including hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Preventing hyperventilation is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. Hyperventilation in DKA is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis (Kussmaul breathing). The body tries to expel more carbon dioxide to reduce the acidity of the blood.
Choice D rationale:
Reversing dehydration is another important goal of therapy for this client. In DKA, high blood glucose levels lead to osmotic diuresis, where water is drawn into the urine from the blood, leading to dehydration. This can cause hypotension and reduced tissue perfusion. Therefore, reversing dehydration through fluid replacement is a key part of treatment.
Choice E rationale:
Replacing insulin is a fundamental goal of therapy for this client. Insulin deficiency is the primary cause of DKA. Insulin allows glucose to enter cells where it can be used for energy, preventing the breakdown of fat for energy and the subsequent production of ketones.
Choice F rationale:
Providing respiratory support may be necessary in severe cases of DKA where the patient’s compensatory respiratory efforts are insufficient to maintain adequate gas exchange. However, it is not one of the primary goals of therapy in DKA management.