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
A. Asking the client if she has previously been catheterized is important for understanding her history and comfort level but is not the first action to take in preparation for the procedure.
B. Consulting with the charge nurse about the catheter may be appropriate if there are concerns about the catheter type, but it is not a priority before starting the procedure.
C. Obtaining a 30 mL syringe and a vial of sterile water is essential for inflating the balloon after catheter insertion, but this can be done after positioning the client.
D. Positioning the client and observing the urinary meatus is the first action the PN should take. This step ensures the client is comfortable and provides a clear view for proper catheter insertion, which is crucial for the procedure's success.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- Medication administration is a process that involves prescribing, dispensing, and giving medications to patients. It is a critical and complex task that requires accuracy, safety, and adherence to the rights of medication administration, such as the right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time, right documentation, and right response.
- When a male client tells the practical nurse (PN) that the pill he has been taking at home is a different color and size than the one the PN is trying to give him now, this may indicate a potential medication error
or discrepancy. A medication error is any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm. A medication discrepancy is any difference between the current and previous medication regimens of a patient.
- The PN should respond to the client's concern by telling him that the PN will verify that the dispensed medication is a valid prescription. This means that the PN will check the medication label, the medication order, and the medication administration record (MAR) to confirm that the medication given to the client matches the one prescribed by the healthcare provider. The PN will also compare the dispensed medication with a drug reference guide or a picture of the medication to ensure that it is the correct drug and dosage form. The PN will also report any suspected errors or discrepancies to the healthcare provider or the pharmacy for clarification or correction.
- Options A, B, and D are incorrect answers, as they do not reflect the appropriate or responsible actions for the PN to take when faced with a possible medication error or discrepancy.
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