A nurse is caring for a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus and a capillary blood glucose reading of 48 mg/dL. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason: This is the correct intervention, because avoiding IM injections can prevent bleeding and hematoma formation in the client who has low platelet count and impaired clotting.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because obtaining a rectal temperature once per shift can cause trauma and bleeding in the rectal mucosa, which is highly vascularized and sensitive.

Choice C reason: This is an unnecessary intervention, because the client who has thrombocytopenia does not have an increased risk of infection, unless they also have neutropenia or immunosuppression. The client should be allowed to have visitors, as long as they follow the infection control precautions.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because encouraging daily flossing between teeth can cause gingival bleeding and ulceration in the client who has low platelet count and impaired clotting. The client should use a soft toothbrush and avoid dental floss.

Choice A reason: Maintaining the client's head of the bed at 20% is an incorrect action, because the head of the bed should be elevated at least 30% to prevent aspiration of the feeding.

Choice B reason: Monitoring the client’s blood glucose level is a correct action, because enteral feedings can affect the blood glucose level and the client may need insulin adjustments.

Choice C reason: Flushing the enteral feeding tube with 10 mL of cool water after each medication is an incorrect action, because cool water can cause cramping and nausea. The nurse should use warm water to flush the tube and use at least 30 mL of water to prevent clogging.

Choice D reason: Obtaining an x-ray after beginning the feeding is an incorrect action, because an x-ray should be obtained before starting the feeding to confirm the placement of the tube.