A patient with type 1 DM expresses concern about developing retinopathy due to a chronic disease. How should the nurse reply?

D. Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 1 hour before meals. This timing allows the medication to coat the ulcer site effectively and protect it from the acidic environment of the stomach, which increases after eating.
A. Taking sucralfate with an antacid can interfere with its action. Sucralfate works by forming a protective barrier on the ulcer site, and antacids can prevent sucralfate from binding properly to the ulcer. It's generally recommended to take sucralfate at least 30 minutes before or after antacids.
B. Sucralfate is not taken on an "as needed" basis for pain relief. It is prescribed as a regular, scheduled medication to provide continuous protection of the ulcer site. Pain relief from peptic ulcers comes as the ulcer heals, which sucralfate aids by protecting the mucosal lining.
C. Sucralfate does not need to be stored in the refrigerator. It should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, according to standard storage guidelines for most medications.

A. Acetone breath, characterized by a fruity or acetone-like odor on the patient's breath, is a classic sign of DKA. In addition, Kussmaul respirations, which are deep and labored breathing patterns, can occur as the body attempts to compensate for metabolic acidosis in DKA.
C. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of DKA and can occur due to metabolic acidosis, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal disturbances associated with the condition.
F. Tachycardia and hypotension are signs of hemodynamic instability, which can occur in severe cases of DKA due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the systemic effects of metabolic acidosis.
G. Turning off an insulin pump can lead to insulin deficiency, which is a precipitating factor for DKA, particularly in patients with type 1 diabetes who rely on continuous insulin therapy. This finding is consistent with the development of DKA.
B. Blurred vision and headache can be symptoms of DKA, although they are not specific to this condition. Elevated blood glucose levels and dehydration associated with DKA can lead to osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid shifts, which may manifest as headache and visual disturbances.

D. A history of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) predisposes the patient to DKA but the history of appendix removal at age 7 is not directly relevant to the current presentation of DKA.
E. Alcohol ingestion can contribute to the development of DKA by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and promoting ketoacidosis, particularly if the patient is not consuming adequate carbohydrates and insulin. However, it is not a direct sign of DKA.