A nurse is collecting data from a client who develops a fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst. Which of the following additional data should the nurse collect?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect finding, because elevated blood pressure is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH regulates the calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and bones. Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, which is the opposite condition.

Choice B reason: This is the correct finding, because involuntary muscle spasms are a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which causes hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium levels. Hypocalcemia can cause neuromuscular irritability and tetany, which are manifested by muscle spasms, twitching, cramps, or seizures.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect finding, because cold intolerance is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hypothyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone regulates the metabolism and body temperature. Cold intolerance can also be a sign of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect finding, because weight loss is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hyperthyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone increases the metabolism and energy expenditure. Weight loss can also be a sign of Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune disease that causes overstimulation and enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Choice A reason: This is the correct data, because blood glucose using a glucometer can help diagnose and monitor the client's condition, which is likely diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood glucose, ketones in the urine, and acidosis in the blood. Fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst are common signs of DKA.

Choice B reason: This is an irrelevant data, because pupillary reaction to light has no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Pupillary reaction to light can help assess the client's neurological status and possible brain injury.

Choice C reason: This is an irrelevant data, because deep tendon reflexes have no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Deep tendon reflexes can help assess the client's neuromuscular function and possible spinal cord injury.

Choice D reason: This is a relevant data, but not the first one. Liver function laboratory values can help assess the client's hepatic function and possible liver damage, which can be a complication of DKA. However, blood glucose using a glucometer is more urgent and specific for the diagnosis and management of DKA.