A nurse is using a glucometer to measure a client's capillary blood glucose level.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Keep the finger in a dependent position.
Wear sterile gloves.
Select the central tip of a finger
Test the first drop of blood that forms after the puncture.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Keep the finger in a dependent position:
- Keeping the finger in a dependent position (lower than the heart) helps promote blood flow to the fingertips, making it easier to obtain a blood sample. This position can facilitate the formation of a blood drop, improving the chances of obtaining an adequate sample for testing.
B. Wear sterile gloves:
- Sterile gloves are not typically necessary for routine capillary blood glucose monitoring. Clean, non-sterile gloves are generally sufficient for this procedure. However, the nurse should perform proper hand hygiene to minimize the risk of contamination.
C. Select the central tip of a finger:
- The central tip of the finger is more sensitive, and choosing this area may cause greater discomfort for the client. The sides of the fingertips are often preferred for capillary blood glucose testing as they have a good blood supply and are less sensitive.
D. Test the first drop of blood that forms after the puncture:
- The initial drop may contain tissue fluid or contaminants from the puncture site, so it is important to use the first drop to obtain a representative blood sample. This step contributes to the accuracy of the blood glucose measurement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer: D. Elevated lipase
Rationale: Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that causes pancreatic enzymes to leak into the bloodstream and damage surrounding tissues. Lipase is one of these enzymes that is produced by the pancreas to digest fats. An elevated lipase level indicates pancreatic injury and is a diagnostic marker for acute pancreatitis. The other laboratory results are not specific to pancreatitis and could be caused by other conditions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A option:
Dietitian should not be consulted: The dietitian is an essential team member and will work closely with the client to ensure proper nutrition and dietary management. However, in the context of dysphagia, the speech-language pathologist's expertise is needed to determine safe swallowing strategies and food modifications.
Choice B option:
Physical therapist should not be consulted: The physical therapist focuses on maintaining and improving the client's physical function and mobility. While important in ALS management, the physical therapist's role is not directly related to the immediate issue of dysphagia.
Choice C option:
The speech-language pathologist is the correct answer because it specializes in assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this case, the speech-language pathologist is essential in evaluating the client's swallowing function, recommending appropriate dietary modifications (texture and consistency of foods), and implementing swallowing exercises or strategies to improve swallowing safety.
Choice D option:
Occupational therapist should not be consulted: The occupational therapist assists clients in regaining or maintaining independence in daily living activities. While the occupational therapist may address some aspects of mealtime activities and adaptive strategies, the speech-language pathologist is more specialized in evaluating and treating swallowing difficulties in clients with ALS.

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