A nurse is caring for a client with diabetes mellitus who is prescribed regular insulin via a sliding scale. After administering the correct dose at 0715, the nurse should ensure the client receives breakfast at which of the following times?

Choice A Reason:

The client states, “I purchased a large magnifying glass.” While this shows an attempt to address the issue of blurred vision, it does not fully address the safety concerns related to macular degeneration. The client should be encouraged to use additional visual aids, such as better lighting and possibly electronic magnifiers, to ensure they can see clearly and avoid accidents. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client needs further teaching.

Choice B Reason:

The client states, “I’m adding bananas to my oatmeal every morning.” This is a positive dietary change. Bananas are rich in potassium, which can help manage blood pressure, a crucial aspect for someone with hypertension. Additionally, adding fruit to breakfast can improve overall nutrition. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client understood the teaching.

Choice C Reason:

The client states, “Instead of being barefoot, I wear socks.” While wearing socks is better than being barefoot, it is not the safest option. Socks can still be slippery on certain surfaces, increasing the risk of falls. The client should be encouraged to wear non-slip shoes or slippers inside the house. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client needs further teaching.

Choice D Reason:

The client states, “I moved my medicine bottles into the living room.” While this might make the medications more accessible, it is not the safest practice. Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Additionally, they should be kept in a location where they are easily visible and accessible but not in a high-traffic area where they could be knocked over. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client needs further teaching.

Choice E Reason:

The client states, “I switched to eating apples and oranges for a nighttime snack.” This is a positive dietary change. Apples and oranges are rich in vitamins and fiber, which are beneficial for overall health. This change also indicates an understanding of the need to incorporate more fruits into the diet. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client understood the teaching.

Choice F Reason:

The client states, “I placed a lamp on my bedside table.” This is a good practice as it ensures that the client has adequate lighting when getting in and out of bed, reducing the risk of falls. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client understood the teaching.

Choice G Reason:

The client states, “I prepared a large batch of beans, so I have a fast meal every night.” This is a positive change as it ensures that the client has a nutritious meal readily available, reducing the reliance on processed frozen meals. Beans are a good source of protein and fiber, which are important for overall health. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client understood the teaching.

Choice H Reason:

The client states, “I added a nonslip throw rug at my kitchen sink.” While the intention is good, throw rugs can still pose a tripping hazard, even if they are nonslip. It would be safer to use a mat that is securely fixed to the floor. Therefore, this statement indicates that the client needs further teaching.

1. a) Inspect the abdomen for skin integrity: The first step in an abdominal assessment is inspection. The nurse should visually examine the abdomen for any abnormalities such as skin changes, scars, distention, or masses.
2. b) Ask the client about having a history of abdominal pain: Gathering a history of abdominal pain is crucial as it provides context for the physical findings. This step helps identify any underlying conditions that may influence the assessment.
3. c) Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sounds: Auscultation should be performed before palpation and percussion to avoid altering the bowel sounds. The nurse listens for the presence, frequency, and character of bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
4. d) Percuss the abdomen in each of the four quadrants: Percussion helps to assess the presence of fluid, air, or masses in the abdomen. The nurse taps on the abdomen to listen for sounds that indicate the underlying structures.
5. e) Palpate the abdomen gently for tenderness: Palpation is the final step and involves gently pressing on the abdomen to check for tenderness, masses, or organ enlargement. This step should be done last to avoid causing discomfort or altering the findings of the other steps.