A nurse is assisting with the care of a client on an orthopedic unit.

Exhibits

Select words from the choices below to fill in each blank in the following sentence.

The client is at risk for developing

dropdown

.

Choice A rationale:

"Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase." Rationale: This statement is accurate. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication known to cause hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) as a side effect. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client's blood glucose levels while they are taking prednisone, especially if the client has preexisting diabetes or risk factors for diabetes.

Choice B rationale:

"Older adults are at risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus." Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Type 1 diabetes mellitus typically develops in childhood or early adulthood and is characterized by autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Older adults are more at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, which is different from type 1 diabetes in terms of its etiology and pathophysiology.

Choice C rationale:

"Having COPD causes blood glucose levels to fluctuate." Rationale: This statement is not accurate. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) primarily affects the respiratory system and does not directly cause blood glucose level fluctuations. Blood glucose levels can be affected indirectly in some cases due to factors like medications or stress associated with the illness, but it is not a direct result of COPD.

Choice D rationale:

"Albuterol treatments can cause blood glucose levels to decrease." Rationale: This statement is not a typical effect of albuterol treatments. Albuterol is a bronchodilator commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma. It is not known to cause significant decreases in blood glucose levels.

Choice A rationale:

Supplement spoken language with pictures. Rationale: When caring for a client who speaks a different language, supplementing spoken language with pictures or visual aids is a helpful communication strategy. Visual aids can assist in conveying important information, instructions, and concepts effectively, especially when there is a language barrier.

Choice B rationale:

Ask a family member of the client to interpret. Rationale: Relying on a family member to interpret can be problematic, as it may compromise the privacy and confidentiality of the client's healthcare information. Additionally, family members may not always be available or proficient in the required language, making it an unreliable method of communication.

Choice C rationale:

Recognize that the client nodding indicates an understanding of the information. Rationale: Assuming that nodding indicates understanding is not a reliable approach, as nodding can have different cultural interpretations and may not necessarily indicate comprehension. It is important to use clear and simple language, along with visual aids when necessary, to ensure effective communication.

Choice D rationale:

Speak to the client at an increased volume. Rationale: Speaking at an increased volume is not an appropriate approach to communication with a client who speaks a different language. It can be perceived as rude or aggressive and is unlikely to improve understanding. Clear and concise communication, along with visual aids or interpretation services when needed, is a more effective strategy.