A nurse is caring for a child who is 2 hours postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following fluid items should the nurse offer the child at this time?

Choice A: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as insulin should not be stored in the freezer, as freezing can damage the insulin and make it ineffective. Insulin should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Unopened bottles of insulin can be stored in the refrigerator until their expiration date, but opened bottles of insulin can be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days.

Choice B: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as the morning blood glucose level for a child who has type 1 diabetes mellitus should be between 70 and 110 mg/dL, according to the American Diabetes Association. A blood glucose level between 90 and 130 mg/dL may indicate hyperglycemia, which is high blood sugar and can cause symptoms such as thirst, hunger, fatigue, or frequent urination. A blood glucose level below 70 mg/dL may indicate hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar and can cause symptoms such as sweating, shaking, dizziness, or confusion.

Choice C: This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching, as eating a snack half an hour before playing soccer can help prevent hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar, in a child who has type 1 diabetes mellitus. Physical activity can lower blood sugar levels by increasing the uptake of glucose by the muscles. Eating a snack that contains carbohydrates and protein can provide energy and prevent a sudden drop in blood sugar levels during or after exercise.

Choice D: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as regular insulin should not be skipped or stopped when a child who has type 1 diabetes mellitus is sick. In fact, insulin may need to be increased or adjusted when a child is sick, as illness can raise blood sugar levels by causing stress hormones or inflammation. The child should monitor their blood sugar levels more frequently when they are sick and follow their sick day plan that includes taking insulin, checking for ketones, staying hydrated, and contacting their provider if needed.

Choice A: Applying heat to a bleeding site can increase blood flow and worsen the bleeding. This statement indicates a need for further teaching, as the parent should avoid applying heat and use cold compresses instead.

Choice B: Having the child rest can reduce physical activity and prevent further injury or bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as resting is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.

Choice C: Compressing the site can apply pressure and stop the bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as compressing is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.

Choice D: Elevating the affected part can reduce blood pressure and slow down the bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as elevating is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.