A nurse is providing education to a client with iron deficiency anemia who has been prescribed iron supplements. What should the nurse include in health education?

A. "The test needs to be repeated following a 12-hour fast."
This statement is not accurate. The hemoglobin A1c test does not require fasting. It reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months and is not affected by short-term changes in diet or fasting.

B. "It tells us about your sugar control for the last 3 months."
This statement is accurate. The hemoglobin A1c test provides information about the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. It's a valuable tool for assessing long-term glycemic control.

C. "It looks like you aren't following the prescribed diabetic diet."
The hemoglobin A1c test reflects overall glycemic control over several months and is not solely influenced by recent dietary habits. While diet plays a role in diabetes management, this statement oversimplifies the interpretation of the A1c result.

D. "Your insulin regimen needs to be altered significantly."
While a high A1c may indicate a need for adjustments in the treatment plan, the decision to alter the insulin regimen should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's overall diabetes management, including lifestyle, diet, and other factors. It may not solely be determined by the A1c result.

A. Stress has likely caused an increase in the client's blood sugar levels:
This statement is accurate. Stress, especially related to surgery, can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol and catecholamines, which can elevate blood sugar levels. Surgery is a physiological stressor that can impact glucose metabolism.

B. The client's volatile fluid balance surrounding surgery has likely caused unstable blood sugars:
This is the most appropriate choice. Surgery, anesthesia, and changes in fluid balance can affect blood glucose levels. The stress response to surgery can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar, and patients may need insulin during this period.

C. The client has likely overstimulated her ability to control her diabetes using non-pharmacologic measures:
This statement is not accurate. Overstimulation is not a common cause of the need for insulin in the context of surgery. The stress and physiological changes associated with surgery are more likely contributors.

D. Alterations in bile metabolism and release have likely caused hyperglycemia:
While alterations in metabolism can impact glucose regulation, in the context of surgery, the primary factors are the stress response, changes in fluid balance, and potential alterations in the ability to eat or drink normally rather than specific effects on bile metabolism.