The nurse is caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) receiving intravenous (IV) regular insulin. The most recent potassium was 2.9 mEq/L. The nurse should take which priority action:
Assess the client urine output (UOP)
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
Notify the primary healthcare provider (PMHCP)
Stop the regular insulin infusion
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale: Assessing the UOP is important, but not as urgent as correcting the potassium imbalance.
Choice B rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead ECG can help monitor the cardiac status, but it does not address the cause of the problem.
Choice C rationale: The PMHCP can order potassium replacement to prevent cardiac arrhythmias and other adverse effects of low potassium levels.
Choice D rationale: Stopping the regular insulin infusion can worsen the DKA and increase the risk of cerebral edema and coma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: This patient is likely experiencing hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS). Rapid administration of IV fluids is crucial to correct severe dehydration associated with HHS.
Choice B rationale: Routine insulin therapy and exercise might be components of diabetes management but wouldn't directly address the immediate concern of severe dehydration and high blood glucose.
Choice C rationale: Cardiac monitoring for potassium changes might be necessary but isn't the primary immediate intervention for HHS.
Choice D rationale: Administering a different antibiotic for the UTI is incorrect, because there is no evidence that the current antibiotic is ineffective or causing adverse effects. The UTI may have triggered the HHS, but it is not the main problem that needs to be addressed urgently.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: This does not match the peak time of NPH insulin.
Choice B rationale: This does not match the peak time of NPH insulin.
Choice C rationale: This does not match the peak time of NPH insulin.
Choice D rationale: This is because NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that has an onset of action of 1 to 2 hours, a peak of 6 to 12 hours, and a duration of 18 to 24 hours. Therefore, if Albert is given NPH insulin at 0730, the peak effect will occur between 1330 and 1930, which means that his blood glucose level will be lowest during this time.
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