A nurse is collecting data from a client prior to administration of verapamil. Which of the following findings indicates a need to withhold the medication?

Encourage the client to help care for their surgical incision. This can help the client accept the body image change and promote healing.

Choice B is wrong because suggesting that the client decide about reconstruction as soon as possible can pressure the client and interfere with their coping process.

Choice C is wrong because postponing referrals to support services until the client requests them can delay the client’s emotional recovery and increase their isolation.

Choice D is wrong because avoiding talking to the client about the surgery can indicate that the nurse is uncomfortable with the topic and discourage the client from expressing their feelings.

The HbA1c value determines long-term blood glucose control for the past 120 days. This is because the HbA1c test measures what percentage of hemoglobin proteins in your blood are coated with sugar (glycated). Hemoglobin proteins in red blood cells live for around 120 days, so the test reflects your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months.

Choice A is wrong because an HbA1c value greater than 8% indicates poor diabetic control of blood sugar. The HbA1c target for most people with type 1 diabetes is 48 mmol/mol (or 6.5%) or lower.

Choice B is wrong because the HbA1c value is not altered by eating habits the day before the test. The test does not require fasting and can be done at any time of the day.

Choice D is wrong because an HbA1c test should be performed more than once per year.

The frequency of the test depends on the type of diabetes, your treatment plan and your blood sugar level. For example, you may need the test twice a year if you have good blood sugar control, or four times a year if you take insulin or have trouble keeping your blood sugar level within your target range.