In preparing to discontinue a client's saline lock, the practical nurse (PN) notes that the client is receiving an antiplatelet medication. Which action should the PN implement?

A: This response is inappropriate as it can be seen as encouraging or validating the patient's comment, which is not professional behavior in a healthcare setting.
B: This choice might seem like a deterrent, but it is more punitive than educational. It does not address the inappropriateness of the comment or guide the patient to understand why the comment was unacceptable.
C: While this statement is true, it does not provide guidance to the patient on appropriate communication. It may also come across as dismissive and does not address the need for respectful interaction.
D: This is the correct response because it sets clear boundaries and communicates to the patient that such comments are not acceptable. It is important for healthcare professionals to maintain a professional environment and educate patients about appropriate behavior.

Regular insulin is the medication of choice for treating DKA. Its main action is to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and inhibiting the production of glucose by the liver. Therefore, checking the fingerstick blood glucose level is an important indicator of the effectiveness of the insulin treatment.
A decrease in the blood glucose level indicates that the insulin is working to lower the high blood sugar associated with DKA. This measurement helps the PN assess the response to treatment and adjust the insulin dosage if necessary.
The other actions mentioned are also important assessments in the care of a client with DKA, but they do not specifically evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage:
A. Smelling the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor is important as it indicates a decrease in ketone production, which is a marker of improving DKA. However, it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
B. Determining the client's orientation to time and space is part of assessing their neurological status, which is crucial in managing DKA. However, it does not specifically assess the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
C. Measuring the client's urinary output for an increased volume is important to monitor hydration status and renal function, but it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.