A nurse is caring for a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus. The client reports that she is not feeling well. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is hypoglycemic? (Select all that apply)
Inability to concentrate
Polydipsia
Tremors
Acetone breath odor
Diaphoresis
Correct Answer : A,C,E
Choice A reason: Inability to concentrate is a common symptom of hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes, as low blood glucose impairs brain function, leading to confusion and difficulty focusing. This neuroglycopenic symptom results from insufficient glucose for cerebral energy, making it a critical indicator requiring prompt intervention like glucose administration.
Choice B reason: Polydipsia is associated with hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia, in type 1 diabetes. It results from osmotic diuresis due to high blood glucose, causing dehydration and thirst. This symptom does not indicate low blood sugar, making it incorrect for identifying hypoglycemia in this scenario.
Choice C reason: Tremors are a hallmark of hypoglycemia, caused by the sympathetic nervous system’s response to low blood glucose, triggering catecholamine release. This leads to shakiness, a common adrenergic symptom, signaling the need for immediate glucose to restore normal levels, making it a correct indicator.
Choice D reason: Acetone breath odor is linked to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. It results from ketone production during fat metabolism in uncontrolled diabetes. This finding is irrelevant to low blood sugar, making it incorrect for this scenario.
Choice E reason: Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is a classic hypoglycemia symptom due to autonomic activation from low blood glucose. The body releases adrenaline, causing sweating as a stress response. This reliable indicator prompts urgent treatment to prevent severe complications, making it a correct choice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Donut-shaped cushions are contraindicated because they create a ring of high pressure that restricts blood flow to the central area. This can worsen tissue ischemia and accelerate skin breakdown.
Choice B rationale: Clients with paraplegia sitting in a chair should be repositioned every 15 minutes to relieve pressure. Frequent shifts are necessary because sitting exerts higher pressure on the ischial tuberosities than lying down.
Choice C rationale: Moisture-barrier creams are used to protect skin from incontinence or wound drainage. Nonblanchable erythema indicates a stage 1 pressure injury, which requires pressure relief rather than a topical moisture barrier.
Choice D rationale: While in bed, the standard of care is to turn and reposition the client at least every 2 hours. A 3-hour interval is too long and increases the risk of further tissue damage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Attaching restraints to movable side rails is unsafe, as rail movement can cause injury or loosen restraints. They should be secured to the bed frame, a fixed structure, so this guideline is incorrect and dangerous for restraint protocols.
Choice B reason: Documenting the client’s condition every 15 minutes ensures frequent monitoring for safety, circulation, and skin integrity, per CMS and Joint Commission standards. This prevents complications and supports timely restraint removal, making it the correct guideline.
Choice C reason: Requesting PRN restraint prescriptions is inappropriate, as restraints require specific, time-limited orders based on immediate need. PRN orders lack oversight and risk misuse, so this guideline is incorrect and non-compliant with regulations.
Choice D reason: Applying restraints over clothing can cause discomfort or skin irritation, as direct skin contact with padding is preferred for safety. This guideline is incorrect, as proper application minimizes harm, making it inappropriate for protocols.
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