A patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and type 2 diabetes has been treated for pneumonia for the past week. The patient has been receiving intravenous corticosteroids as well as antibiotics as part of his therapy. At this time, the pneumonia has resolved, but when monitoring the blood glucose levels, the nurse notices that the level is still elevated. What is the best explanation for this elevation?
The hypoxia caused by the COPD causes an increased need for insulin.
The corticosteroids may cause an increase in glucose levels.
The antibiotics may cause an increase in glucose levels.
His type 2 diabetes has converted to type 1.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because hypoxia does not cause an increased need for insulin, but rather a decreased utilization of glucose by the cells. Hypoxia can also impair the secretion of insulin by the pancreas.
Choice B reason: This is correct because corticosteroids are known to cause hyperglycemia by stimulating gluconeogenesis, inhibiting glucose uptake, and increasing insulin resistance. The patient may need to adjust his insulin dose or switch to oral antidiabetic agents while on corticosteroid therapy.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because antibiotics do not cause an increase in glucose levels, unless they are combined with other drugs that affect glucose metabolism, such as sulfonamides or fluoroquinolones.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because type 2 diabetes does not convert to type 1 diabetes, as they are different types of diabetes with different causes and mechanisms. Type 1 diabetes is caused by autoimmune destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency. Type 2 diabetes is caused by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because reporting symptoms that last longer than 2 days is not specific to guaifenesin. This is a general instruction for any patient with a sinus infection, regardless of the medication they are taking.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because reporting clear-colored sputum to the prescriber is not necessary. Clear-colored sputum indicates that the infection is improving and the mucus is thinning. This is a desired effect of guaifenesin, not a problem that needs to be reported.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because guaifenesin does not have sedating effects. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to break up and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It does not cause drowsiness or impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Choice D reason: This is correct because increasing fluid intake is an important instruction for a patient taking guaifenesin. Fluids help to hydrate the body and thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the sinuses. Fluids also help to prevent dehydration and dryness of the mucous membranes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct because hemoglobin A1C level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past 2 to 3 months. It is a reliable indicator of the patient's glycemic control and adherence to the antidiabetic therapy. The goal for most patients with type 2 diabetes is to keep the hemoglobin A1C level below 7%.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because serum insulin level is not a good measure of the patient's adherence to the antidiabetic therapy, as it may vary depending on the type, dose, and timing of the insulin or oral antidiabetic agents. Serum insulin level may also be affected by other factors, such as stress, infection, or exercise.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because fingerstick fasting blood glucose level only reflects the blood glucose level at a single point in time. It does not provide information about the patient's long-term glycemic control or adherence to the antidiabetic therapy. Fingerstick fasting blood glucose level may also be influenced by the patient's diet, activity, or medication intake before the test.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because hemoglobin level is not related to the patient's adherence to the antidiabetic therapy, as it measures the amount of oxygen-carrying protein in the red blood cells. Hemoglobin level may be affected by conditions such as anemia, dehydration, or blood loss.
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