A nurse is assessing a client at a dermatology clinic. Which of the following findings places the client at risk for developing malignant melanoma?

Choice A Reason:
The instruction to urinate a small amount into the toilet before collecting the sample is correct because it helps clear the urethra of organisms that could contaminate the specimen. This initial void helps to flush out bacteria that are present at the opening of the urethra.

Choice B Reason:
This choice is incorrect because urine samples should be kept at body temperature and sent to the lab as soon as possible. Cooling the urine can lead to precipitation of solutes and may affect the results of certain tests.

Choice C Reason:
This statement is incorrect. The proper technique for cleansing prior to urine collection is to wipe from front to back, not back to front. Wiping from back to front can contaminate the urine with bacteria from the anal area.

Choice D Reason:
It is advisable not to collect a urine sample during menstruation unless absolutely necessary because menstrual blood can contaminate the urine specimen, leading to inaccurate test results.

Choice A: Monitor the client for hypoglycemia

When a nurse administers an incorrect insulin dose, the immediate concern is the risk of hypoglycemia, especially since the insulin dose given was for a higher blood glucose level than the actual reading. Hypoglycemia can occur when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Monitoring the client for hypoglycemia allows the nurse to detect and treat it promptly, ensuring the client’s safety.

Choice B: Complete an incident report

While completing an incident report is important for documenting the medication error and preventing future occurrences, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse’s first responsibility is to ensure the client’s safety by addressing the potential hypoglycemia. Once the client’s condition is stable, the nurse can then complete the incident report.

Choice C: Give the client 15 to 20 g of carbohydrate

Administering 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrate is a treatment for hypoglycemia. However, this action should only be taken if the client is actually experiencing hypoglycemia. The nurse should first monitor the client’s blood glucose levels to confirm hypoglycemia before administering carbohydrates.

Choice D: Notify the nurse manager

Notifying the nurse manager is important for accountability and to ensure that appropriate follow-up actions are taken. However, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse should first monitor the client for hypoglycemia and address any immediate health concerns before notifying the nurse manager.