A nurse suspects that a client who has diabetes mellitus is experiencing hypoglycemia. Which of the following assessment findings supports this suspicion?
Kussmaul respirations
Increased urine output
Cool, clammy skin
Acetone breath
The Correct Answer is C
C. Cool, clammy skin is a common symptom of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels drop too low, the body's sympathetic nervous system is activated, causing sweating and cool, clammy skin as a response to the stress of low blood sugar.
A Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored breathing patterns that occur in response to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of hyperglycemia rather than hypoglycemia. In hypoglycemia, the body typically responds with normal or shallow respirations.
B Increased urine output (polyuria) is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia, where the kidneys try to excrete excess glucose through urine. Hypoglycemia typically does not cause increased urine output.
D. Acetone breath, which has a fruity odor, is associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition caused by severe hyperglycemia and metabolic acidosis. It is not a typical finding in hypoglycemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. The appropriate action for a nurse to take would be to check for air leaks in the system. This can be done by clamping the tubing momentarily to see if the bubbling stops, which would suggest the presence of a leak.
A The drainage system should always be kept below the level of the chest and should not be raised or emptied unless specifically indicated.
C. Emptying the collection chamber is typically unnecessary unless it is nearing full capacity. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber does not indicate that the collection chamber needs immediate emptying.
D. Squeezing the tubing can disrupt the functioning of the drainage system and is not recommended. Drainage should flow passively into the collection chamber without external manipulation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Nuchal rigidity refers to stiffness or resistance to neck movement, especially when the client's head is flexed forward. It is a classic sign of meningitis due to irritation and inflammation of the meninges (the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). This assessment helps to detect meningeal irritation, a hallmark of meningitis.
B. This action tests the deep tendon reflex, specifically the knee jerk reflex (patellar reflex). It assesses the integrity of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves. While it is part of a neurological assessment, it is not specifically related to the assessment of meningitis unless there are concurrent neurological symptoms or signs.
C This maneuver tests for Babinski reflex, which is an abnormal response where the toes flare upward and the big toe dorsiflexes when the sole of the foot is stimulated. A positive Babinski reflex can indicate dysfunction of the corticospinal tract or brain injury but is not a specific finding in meningitis.
D. Tapping the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) assesses for the presence of facial nerve irritation or damage. In the context of meningitis, signs such as facial twitching or asymmetry may indicate involvement of cranial nerves due to inflammation and pressure within the skull.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today