A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis and hypoxia.Which of the following interventions is most critical to perform immediately?
Perform a fingerstick glucose test to assess blood sugar levels.
Administer a bronchodilator to improve breathing.
Monitor vital signs every 15 minutes.
Assess the client's airway and ensure it is clear.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D rationale
Ensuring a clear airway is the priority intervention in cases of diabetic ketoacidosis with hypoxia. Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching tissues. Without a clear airway, oxygen cannot be effectively delivered to the lungs, and subsequently to the bloodstream and tissues. Addressing the client's airway ensures that oxygenation can be improved promptly, which is critical in preventing further complications and maintaining vital functions.
Choice A rationale
While it is important to monitor blood glucose levels in diabetic ketoacidosis, it is not the immediate priority when the client is also experiencing hypoxia. Blood glucose testing does not directly address the oxygen deficiency, which needs urgent attention to prevent severe outcomes.
Choice B rationale
Administering a bronchodilator can help improve breathing in some cases; however, it is not the first step in managing hypoxia and diabetic ketoacidosis. The primary focus should be on ensuring a patent airway to facilitate adequate oxygen delivery.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring vital signs is essential in managing any acute condition; however, in this scenario, ensuring a clear airway to address hypoxia is the most critical intervention. Monitoring alone does not resolve the immediate issue of oxygen deprivation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale: A blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL is critically low, indicating hypoglycemia. Immediate intervention is required to prevent potential complications such as loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death. Hypoglycemia in individuals with type 1 diabetes can be life-threatening and requires prompt treatment with fast-acting carbohydrates to restore normal blood glucose levels.
Choice B rationale: The client's report of shakiness, hunger, cool skin, and diaphoresis are classic symptoms of hypoglycemia. These symptoms correlate with the dangerously low blood glucose level and indicate an urgent need for intervention. Addressing these symptoms quickly can prevent further deterioration of the client's condition.
Choice C rationale: While the slight increase in temperature to 37.8°C (100°F) is noteworthy, it does not necessitate immediate intervention compared to the hypoglycemic event. Monitoring for any signs of infection or other issues is important, but it is not the highest priority in this scenario.
Choice D rationale: An oxygen saturation of 97% on room air is within normal limits and does not require immediate follow-up. There are no signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia that would necessitate urgent intervention in this case.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering post-procedure antibiotics is not typically required for a bronchoscopy unless there is evidence of infection. The procedure itself does not inherently pose a high risk of infection requiring antibiotics as a preventative measure.
Choice B rationale
Providing pre-procedure sedation is important to ensure the client is comfortable and relaxed during the bronchoscopy. This helps minimize discomfort and anxiety associated with the procedure.
Choice C rationale
Ensuring the client is NPO (nothing by mouth) for a specific period before the procedure is crucial to prevent aspiration. Aspiration can occur if the client has food or liquid in their stomach, posing a serious risk during the insertion of the bronchoscope.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging the client to drink plenty of fluids before the procedure is not appropriate because the client needs to be NPO to prevent aspiration risks during the bronchoscopy.
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