Exhibits

A nurse is reviewing the electronic medical record of a client who is at 29 weeks of gestation. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider? (Click on the exhibit tabs for additional information about the client. There are three tabs that contain separate categories of data.)

Rationale:
A. Guide the client by walking parallel with them: Clients with visual impairment should be guided by walking slightly ahead of them, allowing them to hold the nurse’s arm and follow safely. Walking parallel can limit spatial awareness and increase the risk of collision or falls.

B. Rearrange clients bedside table items frequently: Frequently moving personal items can confuse a client with reduced vision and increase the risk of injury. Maintaining a consistent environment promotes independence and safety.

C. Remove objects from client's path to the bathroom: Clearing pathways reduces the risk of trips and falls, which is essential for clients with impaired vision. Ensuring a clutter-free environment is a key safety intervention in the plan of care.

D. Use a loud tone of voice when speaking with the client: A louder voice is unnecessary unless the client has a hearing impairment. Communication should focus on clear, descriptive verbal guidance rather than volume, emphasizing orientation and safety.

Rationale:
A. Acetone breath odor: A fruity or acetone breath odor occurs when the body produces ketones due to fat breakdown in hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This finding is not associated with hypoglycemia but rather prolonged high blood glucose levels.

B. Polydipsia: Excessive thirst (polydipsia) is a sign of hyperglycemia because the kidneys attempt to excrete excess glucose, leading to dehydration. It does not occur during hypoglycemia, when blood sugar levels are abnormally low.

C. Inability to concentrate: Low blood glucose deprives the brain of its primary energy source, leading to confusion, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. These neuroglycopenic symptoms are hallmark signs of hypoglycemia and can progress to altered consciousness if untreated.

D. Diaphoresis: Sweating is a classic adrenergic response to hypoglycemia as the body releases epinephrine to raise blood glucose levels. It serves as an early warning sign, prompting immediate carbohydrate intake to prevent further decline in blood sugar.

E. Tremors: Tremors occur due to increased sympathetic nervous system activity during hypoglycemia. The body responds to falling glucose by releasing catecholamines, which stimulate muscle activity and cause shaking or trembling sensations.