A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The nurse should recognize that the client understands the teaching when he identifies which of the following as manifestations of hypoglycemia? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Polydipsia is excessive thirst, which is a symptom of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), not hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). People with hyperglycemia lose fluid through frequent urination and become dehydrated, which makes them thirsty.

Choice B reason: This is correct. Shaking is a common sign of hypoglycemia. It occurs because the body releases adrenaline and other hormones to raise blood sugar levels. Adrenaline causes the muscles to tremble or shake.

Choice C reason: This is correct. Confusion is another common sign of hypoglycemia. It occurs because the brain does not get enough glucose, which is its main source of energy. Low blood sugar can impair cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and judgment.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Tachycardia is a rapid heart rate, which can be a symptom of both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. However, it is not a specific or reliable indicator of low blood sugar, as it can also be caused by other factors, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, or medication.

Choice E reason: This is incorrect. Polyuria is excessive urination, which is another symptom of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. People with hyperglycemia have high levels of glucose in their blood, which draws water from the cells and increases urine output.

Choice A reason: This is correct. Drinking a glass of water after taking calcium carbonate antacid can help flush the medication down the esophagus and into the stomach, where it can neutralize the excess acid. It can also prevent the medication from sticking to the esophagus and causing irritation or damage¹.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Decreasing bulk in the diet is not necessary when taking calcium carbonate antacid. In fact, increasing fiber intake can help prevent constipation, which is a common side effect of calcium carbonate antacid. Constipation occurs because calcium carbonate can reduce the motility of the gastrointestinal tract.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Taking the medication with dairy products can decrease absorption and effectiveness of calcium carbonate antacid. Dairy products contain calcium, which can bind to calcium carbonate and form insoluble complexes that are not absorbed by the body. This can reduce the amount of calcium carbonate available to neutralize the stomach acid.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Reducing sodium intake is not related to taking calcium carbonate antacid. Sodium is a mineral that regulates fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve and muscle function in the body. Some medications, such as diuretics, can increase sodium excretion and require the patient to limit sodium intake. Calcium carbonate antacid is not one of them.