A client with Cushing's syndrome is receiving education about dietary changes from the nurse. Which statement by the patient demonstrates the need for further teaching?

A. Management of diabetic ketoacidosis:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar, ketones in the urine, and metabolic acidosis. While it's crucial to understand how to manage DKA, this may be considered more advanced knowledge and may not be categorized as a basic survival skill for someone newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

B. Signs and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy:
Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication that involves damage to the nerves due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. While understanding neuropathy is important for long-term health, it may not be the first topic addressed as a basic survival skill for someone newly diagnosed.

C. Effects of surgery and pregnancy on blood sugar levels:
Understanding how surgery and pregnancy can affect blood sugar levels is important for managing diabetes in specific situations. However, this knowledge might be considered more advanced and may not be the initial focus for someone just starting to learn about diabetes self-care.

D. Recognition of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia:
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of both low and high blood sugar is essential for immediate self-care. This includes understanding when blood sugar is too low (hypoglycemia) and requires prompt treatment, as well as recognizing the symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and knowing how to address them. This knowledge is fundamental for the daily management and well-being of someone with diabetes.

A. It is rapidly absorbed, has a fast onset of action:
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Glargine (Lantus) actually has a slow onset of action and a prolonged duration of action. It is formulated to provide a steady level of insulin in the body over an extended period.

B. Administer the total daily dosage in two doses:
Explanation: This is not the recommended administration for glargine. It is typically administered once daily to provide basal insulin coverage over a 24-hour period.

C. Draw up the drug first, then add regular insulin:
Explanation: Mixing glargine with other insulins is not recommended. Glargine should be administered separately to maintain its extended duration of action. It should not be mixed with other insulins in the same syringe.

D. Do not mix with other insulins:
Explanation: This is the correct statement. Glargine should not be mixed with other insulins. It should be administered alone to maintain its "peakless" basal coverage. Mixing it with other insulins could alter its pharmacokinetics and compromise its effectiveness.