A nurse is teaching a client who was recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Rationale:

A. Polydipsia: Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is commonly associated with hyperglycemia due to osmotic diuresis caused by high blood glucose levels. It is not a typical feature of hypoglycemia.

B. Tremors: Tremors are a hallmark symptom of hypoglycemia. They result from the body's adrenergic (sympathetic) response to low blood glucose levels, which triggers the release of epinephrine to raise glucose.

C. Acetone breath odor: A fruity or acetone breath odor is associated with diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. It indicates ketone buildup due to fat metabolism in the absence of insulin.

D. Inability to concentrate: Cognitive impairment, such as confusion or difficulty concentrating, is a neurological symptom of hypoglycemia. The brain relies heavily on glucose, and low levels affect its function quickly.

E. Diaphoresis: Sweating is a common autonomic symptom of hypoglycemia due to activation of the sympathetic nervous system. It often occurs early in a hypoglycemic episode and is a critical sign to monitor.

Rationale:

A. Call in additional medical-surgical unit nursing care staff: The initial priority during a mass casualty event is to maximize available resources and free up beds by discharging stable clients. Staffing adjustments come after determining how to expand capacity.

B. Act as a liaison between the facility and the media: This role falls under the responsibilities of public relations or designated administrative personnel. Nurses should focus on patient care and operational tasks relevant to their scope during a crisis.

C. Determine the medical needs of incoming clients through the emergency department: Triage of incoming casualties is performed by designated emergency department staff. Nurses from other units typically assist by creating space or relocating stable clients.

D. Recommend to the provider specific acute care clients for discharge: Identifying stable clients who can be safely discharged allows beds and resources to be allocated to incoming critical cases. This is an appropriate and immediate nursing response during mass casualty.