A nurse is caring for an adolescent who was brought to the emergency department (ED) with a fever, headache, and neck stiffness. The nurse should determine the assessment findings are consistent with which of the following disease processes?

Choice A reason: Tremors are not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose. Tremors are more commonly associated with hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose, as the body releases adrenaline to stimulate the release of glucose from the liver. Tremors may also be caused by anxiety, caffeine, or certain medications.

Choice B reason: Shallow respirations are not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, unless the child has developed diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body breaks down fat for energy and produces ketones, which are acidic substances that can cause metabolic acidosis. In DKA, the child may have rapid and deep breathing, also known as Kussmaul respirations, as the body tries to eliminate excess carbon dioxide and acid. However, DKA usually occurs when the blood glucose level is above 300 mg/dL, and the child may also have other signs and symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath, and confusion.

Choice C reason: Pallor is not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, as the blood flow to the skin is not affected by high blood glucose. Pallor is more commonly associated with anemia, shock, or hypoxia, which are conditions that reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood or the blood flow to the tissues.

Choice D reason: Lethargy is a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, as high blood glucose can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and impaired brain function. The child may feel tired, weak, and drowsy, and have difficulty concentrating or staying awake. Lethargy may also indicate that the child is at risk of developing DKA, which can lead to coma and death if not treated promptly.

Choice A reason: This is not a correct statement by the child. The child should take their regular insulin as prescribed, even when they are sick. Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy and prevents high blood sugar levels, which can cause complications. The child may need to adjust their insulin dose or frequency depending on their blood glucose levels, food intake, and activity level.

Choice B reason: This is not a correct statement by the child. The child should not store unopened bottles of insulin in the freezer. Freezing can damage the insulin and make it ineffective. The child should store unopened bottles of insulin in the refrigerator, away from direct light and heat. The child should store opened bottles of insulin at room temperature and discard them after 28 days.

Choice C reason: This is not a correct statement by the child. The child's morning blood glucose should be between 70 and 110 mg/dL, according to the American Diabetes Association. A blood glucose level between 90 and 130 mg/dL may indicate that the child has hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, which can cause symptoms such as thirst, hunger, fatigue, and frequent urination.

Choice D reason: This is a correct statement by the child. The child should eat a snack half an hour before playing soccer or engaging in any physical activity. Physical activity lowers blood glucose levels, and a snack can help prevent hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which can cause symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, dizziness, and confusion.