A nurse is collecting data from a client who has pernicious anemia.
The nurse should identify that which of the following findings increases the client's risk for injury?

Choice A rationale:

Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not the priority in this situation. The client is reporting pain in the calf, which could be indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially serious condition. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry) is a more appropriate action to assess for possible DVT complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry is the correct action in this scenario. Pain in the calf can be a symptom of DVT, which can lead to reduced blood flow and potential oxygenation issues. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation levels can help identify any oxygenation problems early.

Choice C rationale:

Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not recommended in this situation, as it may dislodge a clot if DVT is present. Massaging the calf can be harmful and is contraindicated when DVT is suspected.

Choice D rationale:

Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed is not a recommended action in this case. Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and improve venous return, but it should be done cautiously, especially if DVT is suspected. Monitoring the client's condition and oxygen saturation takes precedence.

Choice A rationale:

"Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase." Rationale: This statement is accurate. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication known to cause hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) as a side effect. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client's blood glucose levels while they are taking prednisone, especially if the client has preexisting diabetes or risk factors for diabetes.

Choice B rationale:

"Older adults are at risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus." Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Type 1 diabetes mellitus typically develops in childhood or early adulthood and is characterized by autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Older adults are more at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, which is different from type 1 diabetes in terms of its etiology and pathophysiology.

Choice C rationale:

"Having COPD causes blood glucose levels to fluctuate." Rationale: This statement is not accurate. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) primarily affects the respiratory system and does not directly cause blood glucose level fluctuations. Blood glucose levels can be affected indirectly in some cases due to factors like medications or stress associated with the illness, but it is not a direct result of COPD.

Choice D rationale:

"Albuterol treatments can cause blood glucose levels to decrease." Rationale: This statement is not a typical effect of albuterol treatments. Albuterol is a bronchodilator commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma. It is not known to cause significant decreases in blood glucose levels.