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 ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. "I don't need to go to the hospital if I have another seizure unless it is a very long seizure or if I have several in a row." This statement demonstrates an understanding that certain characteristics of seizures, such as prolonged duration or multiple seizures in succession, may require medical attention and evaluation.
C. "I may never know why I started having seizures." This statement acknowledges the possibility that the underlying cause of the seizures may remain unknown. Seizure etiology can vary, and in some cases, the specific cause cannot be determined despite diagnostic tests.
D. "Having a medic alert bracelet might be a good idea, but it is up to me to decide if I want it or not." This statement recognizes the potential benefits of wearing a medic alert bracelet, which can provide crucial information about the client's condition in case of emergencies. It emphasizes the client's autonomy in making the decision, showing an understanding of the role and significance of the bracelet.
The following statement does not indicate understanding:
"There are really no lifestyle changes that I can do that will affect my risk of having another seizure." This statement is incorrect, as there are lifestyle modifications that can help reduce the risk of seizures, such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, avoiding triggers (if known), and taking prescribed medications as directed.
Regarding the statement "I can stop taking the phenytoin if I go for a while and don't have a seizure," it is not included in the given options.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hemodialysis is a procedure used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. One of the waste products that accumulate in the blood during kidney dysfunction is creatinine. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, and its levels in the blood are normally regulated and eliminated by the kidneys. In AKI, the kidneys are not able to effectively filter and eliminate creatinine, leading to elevated levels in the blood. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess creatinine from the blood, resulting in decreased creatinine levels.
A- Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) are common in AKI and can be life-threatening. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess potassium from the blood, restoring normal levels.
However, the best indicator of the effectiveness of hemodialysis in managing hyperkalemia would be monitoring the potassium levels before and after the session rather than considering it as the "best" indicator.
B- Decreased calcium levels can occur in kidney dysfunction due to impaired activation of vitamin D and decreased absorption of calcium from the intestines. While hemodialysis can help restore calcium levels, it may not be the primary laboratory value used to evaluate the effectiveness of each session.
C- Lowered hemoglobin levels can be seen in AKI due to various factors, including decreased production of red blood cells and blood loss. Hemodialysis can help remove waste products and excess fluid, but it may not directly address the underlying causes of lowered hemoglobin levels.
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