A nurse is caring for a client who is taking multiple medications. Which of the following medications should the nurse identify as a controlled substance?

Rationale:

A. Remove stopcocks from IV tubing: Removing stopcocks is not necessary and may compromise IV line function. The priority is to prevent contact with latex-containing components, not to eliminate all IV hardware, as many are latex-free.

B. Disinfect and powder any latex products before use: Powdered latex products increase the risk of airborne latex particles, which can trigger severe allergic reactions. Disinfecting or using powdered latex items is unsafe for clients with latex sensitivity and should be avoided entirely.

C. Tape stockinet over monitoring devices and cords: Covering monitoring devices, cords, and other equipment with a barrier such as stockinet prevents direct contact with latex-containing components. This reduces the risk of an allergic reaction during surgery while allowing the necessary monitoring and functionality to continue safely.

D. Schedule the client as the last surgery of the day: While scheduling considerations may be made to reduce exposure to residual latex or disinfectants, the timing of surgery is not the primary strategy for preventing a reaction. The focus should be on removing or isolating all latex-containing items from the environment.

Rationale:

A. Tachycardia: Tachycardia is common in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and compensatory mechanisms for hypotension. The heart rate increases to maintain adequate perfusion in response to fluid loss and acidosis.

B. HCO3 in expected range: In DKA, bicarbonate (HCO3) levels are decreased due to metabolic acidosis. The body uses bicarbonate to buffer excess ketone acids, so HCO3 is typically below the normal range, not within expected limits.

C. Increased PaCO2: In DKA, PaCO2 is usually decreased due to Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing) as the body attempts to compensate for metabolic acidosis by blowing off CO2. Elevated PaCO2 would indicate hypoventilation, which is not characteristic of DKA.

D. Hyperreflexia: DKA does not typically cause hyperreflexia. Neurological changes, if present, are more likely to involve lethargy, confusion, or coma due to severe acidosis, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances, rather than exaggerated reflexes.