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 D
Explanation
While caring for a client with Guillain-Barre syndrome, the practical nurse (PN) should report the finding of irregular heart rate to the charge nurse. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a neurological disorder that can affect multiple body systems, including the autonomic nervous system.
Autonomic dysfunction can lead to various cardiovascular abnormalities, such as changes in heart rate and rhythm.
However, irregular heart rate can indicate potential cardiac involvement or autonomic instability, which requires prompt evaluation and intervention. Therefore, the PN should report the finding of an irregular heart rate to the charge nurse for further assessment and appropriate management.
Incorrect:
A, B- Full facial flushing and profuse diaphoresis are common symptoms that can occur in Guillain-Barre syndrome due to autonomic dysfunction. While these findings should be noted and monitored, they may not require immediate reporting unless they are severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
C- Lower leg weakness is a characteristic symptom of Guillain-Barre syndrome and is expected in this condition. The PN should document and monitor the extent and progression of weakness but does not necessarily need to report it unless there are significant changes or complications.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
Explanation
Based on the laboratory data, the client has:
Option 1: Pre-diabetes
Option 2: Impaired glucose tolerance
The client's fasting blood glucose level of 122 mg/dL (6.8 mmol/L) falls within the range of 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.56 to 6.9 mmol/L), indicating impaired glucose tolerance. This suggests that the client's blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes mellitus.
Impaired glucose tolerance is considered a precursor to diabetes and indicates an increased risk of developing diabetes in the future. It is important for the practical nurse to educate the client about lifestyle modifications to manage blood sugar levels and prevent the progression to diabetes.
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