A nurse is caring for a child who is experiencing a seizure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy to manage their blood sugar levels. Since the question is about teaching an adolescent with type 1 diabetes, let's analyze each option:

A) Obtain an influenza vaccine annually:

This is a crucial recommendation. People with diabetes, including type 1 diabetes, have a higher risk of complications from infections, including influenza (the flu). The flu can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially worsen diabetes control. Getting an annual influenza vaccine helps reduce the risk of getting the flu and its associated complications.

B) Take glyburide with breakfast:

Glyburide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, not type 1 diabetes. It stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by a lack of insulin production, so taking glyburide would not be appropriate.

C) Administer glucagon for hyperglycemia:

Glucagon is a hormone used to raise blood sugar levels, typically in cases of severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is not used to treat hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) in type 1 diabetes. Instead, insulin administration is the primary method for managing high blood sugar levels.

D) Inject insulin in the deltoid muscle:

Insulin injections for individuals with type 1 diabetes are typically given in the subcutaneous fat, which is found just beneath the skin. The deltoid muscle is not a recommended site for insulin injections due to inconsistent absorption. The abdomen, thighs, and buttocks are commonly recommended injection sites.

A. Polyuria (excessive urination) is not a symptom of hypoglycemia; it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

B. Deep rapid respirations are more characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of uncontrolled diabetes that leads to high blood sugar levels and metabolic acidosis.

C. Dry, flushed skin is not a typical symptom of hypoglycemia; it might be associated with conditions like dehydration or heat exposure, but not with low blood sugar.

D. Tachycardia

Explanation: The symptoms described by the adolescent (feeling shaky, difficulty speaking, difficulty concentrating) along with a blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL indicate hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar. Tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate, is a common physiological response to hypoglycemia. The body increases the heart rate in an attempt to improve blood flow and deliver glucose to the brain and other vital organs. This is part of the body's fight-or-flight response to low blood sugar.