A nurse is caring for a client with type 2 diabetes.
Which of the following medications is used to treat elevated blood sugar levels?

The correct answer is Choice B. Choice A rationale: Ondansetron (Zofran) is an antiemetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting. The client denies nausea and vomiting, so this medication is not necessary at this time.

Choice B rationale: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is appropriate for managing mild pain, which the client reports as 2 out of 10 on the pain scale. This medication effectively alleviates mild pain without significant side effects, making it suitable for the client’s current condition.

Choice C rationale: Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Norco) is a combination of an opioid and acetaminophen used for moderate to severe pain. Since the client reports only mild pain (2 out of 10), this stronger medication is not warranted and could cause unnecessary side effects.

Choice D rationale: Melatonin is used to help with sleep. The client does not report any issues with sleep, so administering this medication is not relevant to the current situation.

Choice A rationale

While metformin is commonly used as a first-line medication for type 2 diabetes, this choice does not specifically address a critical safety concern related to metformin.

Choice B rationale

Metformin can interact with contrast dyes used in imaging studies, increasing the risk of acute renal failure due to lactic acidosis. Patients need to be aware of this interaction to avoid potential complications.

Choice C rationale

Metformin is used to lower blood glucose levels, not increase them. This choice is incorrect.

Choice D rationale

While metformin is associated with less weight gain compared to other diabetes medications, this choice does not address the critical interaction with contrast dye.