The client with type 1 diabetes mellitus is prescribed to take NPH (Humulin N) insulin at 5 PM each day. The client should be instructed that the greatest risk of hypoglycemia will occur about what time?

A. Obtaining a culture of the drainage may be necessary, but the immediate concern is to determine if the drainage is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or another type of fluid. Checking for glucose content is a rapid way to differentiate CSF from other fluids.

B. Correct. Clear drainage from the nose post-transsphenoidal hypophysectomy may indicate a CSF leak, which is a potential complication. Checking the drainage for glucose can help differentiate CSF from other fluids, as CSF contains glucose. If the drainage tests positive for glucose, it indicates the presence of CSF.

C. Documenting the amount of drainage is important, but determining the nature of the drainage (CSF or other fluid) takes precedence in this situation.

D. Notifying the client's provider is important, but the nurse should gather information about the drainage first by checking for glucose content. This information will be crucial for the healthcare provider to make decisions about further interventions

A. Incorrect. Withholding insulin during illness is not recommended. Clients with type 1 diabetes should continue to take their prescribed insulin even when they are ill. Insulin is necessary to regulate blood glucose levels, and illness can increase the body's demand for insulin.

B. Incorrect. Drinking calorie-free liquids is important to prevent dehydration during illness, but specific fluid amounts should be individualized based on the client's needs and healthcare provider's recommendations. The given volume is not a universally applicable guideline.

C. Incorrect. Testing blood glucose levels every 8 hours may not be frequent enough during illness. Blood glucose should be monitored more frequently to closely track changes in response to illness and adjust insulin doses accordingly.

D. Correct. Checking urine for ketones when blood glucose levels exceed 240 mg/dL is an important guideline during illness. Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to the production of ketones, and checking for ketones in the urine helps identify the early signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). If ketones are present, the client should follow a specific plan of action as outlined by their healthcare provider, which may include adjusting insulin doses or seeking medical attention.