The nurse is teaching an adult client with Type 1 diabetes that a primary cause of the development of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is:

A. While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and can help the kidneys function properly, this statement alone does not capture the full scope of kidney-related issues associated with diabetes, such as diabetic nephropathy. It’s important to emphasize regular monitoring of kidney function through lab tests (e.g., microalbuminuria) as part of diabetes management.
B. People with diabetes are at increased risk for eye complications such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management of these conditions, making this information critical for a client with diabetes.
C. Many sources recommend at least annual foot exams, but those with neuropathy or previous foot problems may need more frequent evaluations (every 3 to 6 months). This statement is generally accurate but should be tailored to the individual's risk factors.
D. Regular physical activity is generally recommended for individuals with diabetes as it improves insulin sensitivity, helping to manage blood glucose levels. While extreme exercise without proper management can lead to complications, stating that excessive exercise increases insulin resistance is misleading. The key is to balance exercise with proper nutrition and medication.

A. The nurse should notify the prescriber about the current dose (7 mL/hr) because the patient is ordered 1600 units of heparin per hour. The current infusion rate needs to be assessed in relation to the aPTT result, especially if the aPTT indicates that the patient may be at risk for bleeding.
B. While having a second IV may be useful for administering fluids or medications in case of a bleeding emergency, there is no immediate indication for IV 0.9 saline in this scenario. The priority is to assess the heparin dosage and aPTT before making additional IV arrangements.
C. It’s important to assess the IV site for signs of infiltration, especially since the patient is on heparin therapy. Infiltration can affect the effectiveness of the medication and cause complications, so this assessment is vital.
D. While it is important to verify lab results, the nurse should primarily focus on addressing the current situation regarding the heparin infusion and the patient’s anticoagulation status rather than confirming lab results with the lab technician at this moment.
E. While protamine sulfate is an antidote to heparin, it is not warranted based solely on the aPTT result of 37 seconds. The normal aPTT range is typically around 30-40 seconds, depending on the laboratory standards, and the aPTT may not indicate that the patient requires reversal of heparin at this time.