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?

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.

- 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.