A client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is receiving regular insulin. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement to evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage?
Smell the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor.
Determine the client's orientation to time and space.
Measure the client's urinary output for an increased volume.
Check fingerstick blood glucose for a decrease in the level.
The Correct Answer is D
Regular insulin is the medication of choice for treating DKA. Its main action is to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and inhibiting the production of glucose by the liver. Therefore, checking the fingerstick blood glucose level is an important indicator of the effectiveness of the insulin treatment.
A decrease in the blood glucose level indicates that the insulin is working to lower the high blood sugar associated with DKA. This measurement helps the PN assess the response to treatment and adjust the insulin dosage if necessary.
The other actions mentioned are also important assessments in the care of a client with DKA, but they do not specifically evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage:
A. Smelling the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor is important as it indicates a decrease in ketone production, which is a marker of improving DKA. However, it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
B. Determining the client's orientation to time and space is part of assessing their neurological status, which is crucial in managing DKA. However, it does not specifically assess the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
C. Measuring the client's urinary output for an increased volume is important to monitor hydration status and renal function, but it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Document the client's loss of memory in the record.
While it's important to document changes in a patient's condition, this should not be the first action. The confusion might be temporary and due to the new environment. It's crucial to first address the patient's immediate needs.
Choice B: Remind the client what day of the week it is.
This is the best action to take. The patient is likely experiencing "relocation stress syndrome," which can cause confusion and disorientation in a new environment. Reminding her of the day can help reorient her and alleviate her confusion.
Choice C: Encourage the client to rest during the day.
While rest is important, it doesn't directly address the patient's confusion about the day of the week. Furthermore, excessive daytime sleep can disrupt the patient's sleep-wake cycle and potentially exacerbate confusion.
Choice D: Notify the family of the change in the client's condition.
While it's important to keep the family informed, this should not be the first action. The nurse should first address the patient's confusion and monitor her to see if the confusion persists or improves.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the first action the PN should take when noticing that the UAP consistently records subnormal temperatures when using a tympanic thermometer. Observing how the UAP obtains temperatures will help the PN identify any errors or problems with the technique, equipment, or documentation. The PN can then provide feedback and guidance to the UAP to ensure accurate and reliable temperature measurements.
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