The nurse is caring for a client who has prostate cancer. Which of the following manifestations does the nurse attribute to the advancing disease process?

Choice A: Monitor the client for hypoglycemia

When a nurse administers an incorrect insulin dose, the immediate concern is the risk of hypoglycemia, especially since the insulin dose given was for a higher blood glucose level than the actual reading. Hypoglycemia can occur when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Monitoring the client for hypoglycemia allows the nurse to detect and treat it promptly, ensuring the client’s safety.

Choice B: Complete an incident report

While completing an incident report is important for documenting the medication error and preventing future occurrences, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse’s first responsibility is to ensure the client’s safety by addressing the potential hypoglycemia. Once the client’s condition is stable, the nurse can then complete the incident report.

Choice C: Give the client 15 to 20 g of carbohydrate

Administering 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrate is a treatment for hypoglycemia. However, this action should only be taken if the client is actually experiencing hypoglycemia. The nurse should first monitor the client’s blood glucose levels to confirm hypoglycemia before administering carbohydrates.

Choice D: Notify the nurse manager

Notifying the nurse manager is important for accountability and to ensure that appropriate follow-up actions are taken. However, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse should first monitor the client for hypoglycemia and address any immediate health concerns before notifying the nurse manager.

Choice A reason:
It is important to keep a Plaster of Paris cast dry because moisture can weaken the cast and irritate the skin underneath. Therefore, the cast should be covered while showering to prevent it from getting wet.

Choice B reason:
Applying ice to the foot after walking can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief. It is a common recommendation for managing discomfort associated with a walking cast. The ice should be applied over the cast at the level of the injury for 15-30 minutes, repeating every few hours for the first few days.

Choice C reason:
While a musty odor can develop over time due to sweat and lack of air circulation, it is not necessarily normal and could indicate a problem such as an infection. If there is a persistent unpleasant odor, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Choice D reason:
Numbness or pain in the toes can be a sign of compromised circulation or nerve compression and should be reported immediately. It is crucial to monitor for any changes in sensation or increased pain, as these could indicate a serious issue that requires medical attention.