A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a long history of diabetes mellitus and is being admitted to the emergency department confused, flushed, and with an acetone odor on the breath. Diabetic ketoacidosis is suspected. The nurse should anticipate using which of the following types of insulin to treat this client?
NPH insulin
Insulin glargine
Insulin detemir
Regular Insulin
The Correct Answer is D
A. NPH insulin: NPH insulin, also known as Neutral Protamine Hagedorn, is an intermediate acting insulin. It has a slower onset of action and a longer duration compared to regular insulin. It is not the best choice for treating diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) because it does not act quickly enough to lower dangerously high blood glucose levels in this acute situation.
B. Insulin glargine: Insulin glargine is a long-acting basal insulin. It has a slow, steady release and provides a consistent level of insulin over an extended period. Like NPH insulin, it is not suitable for rapidly lowering blood glucose levels in a DKA emergency.
C. Insulin detemir: Insulin detemir is another long-acting basal insulin similar to glargine. It has a slow onset and provides a sustained release of insulin. It is not the first-line choice for treating DKA due to its slower action.
D. Regular Insulin: Regular insulin, also known as short-acting or fast-acting insulin, has a rapid onset of action. When administered intravenously, it can quickly lower blood glucose levels. This makes it the preferred choice for treating diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) where prompt action is essential to correct the severe hyperglycemia and associated metabolic imbalances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Checking the pedal pulses is important for assessing circulation, but it may not directly address the cause of the muscle spasms. In this case, addressing the electrolyte imbalance is a higher priority.
B. Requesting a relaxant might provide temporary relief for muscle spasms, but it does not address the potential underlying cause. It's important to identify and treat the root issue.
C. Correct. Severe muscle spasms in a client post-thyroidectomy could indicate hypocalcemia, as the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels, can be affected during the surgery. Verifying the most recent calcium level will help determine if this is the cause.
D. Administering an oral potassium supplement addresses a different electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia), which is not typically associated with muscle spasms following a thyroidectomy. Calcium levels are more relevant in this context.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Correct. Propylthiouracil (PTU) is an antithyroid medication used to treat hyperthyroidism, including Graves' disease. It can sometimes cause agranulocytosis, a condition characterized by a severe reduction in white blood cells, which can lead to symptoms like a sore throat and fever. These symptoms should be reported immediately.
B. Constipation is not a common side effect of propylthiouracil. If it occurs, it is usually not an urgent concern, and can often be managed with dietary and lifestyle changes.
C. Increased urine output is not typically associated with propylthiouracil. It is more likely to be seen with diuretic medications or conditions like diabetes.
D. Painful, excessive menstruation is not a direct side effect of propylthiouracil. However, hormonal changes related to hyperthyroidism can affect menstrual patterns. If the client is experiencing significant changes in menstrual bleeding, it should be reported to the healthcare provider, but it may not be considered an immediate emergency.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today