The nurse obtains a fingerstick blood glucose level using a bedside glucose meter from a client with a prescribed sliding scale insulin protocol. The meter indicates 56 mg/dL (3.12 mmol/L). At this time, which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Reference Range: Glucose 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)
Prepare the prescribed dose of rapid-acting insulin from the sliding scale instructions.
Give the client six ounces of non-diet carbonated soda and instruct the client to drink it entirely.
Collect a blood specimen by venipuncture to send to the laboratory for serum glucose analysis.
Document the glucose reading in the electronic medical record (EMR).
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Preparing the prescribed dose of rapid-acting insulin from the sliding scale instructions is not appropriate when the client's blood glucose level is low (56 mg/dL). Administering insulin at this point could further lower the blood glucose level, potentially leading to severe hypoglycemia. The priority is to raise the client's blood glucose level to a safe range.
Choice B reason: Giving the client six ounces of non-diet carbonated soda and instructing the client to drink it entirely is the correct first intervention. The client’s blood glucose level is significantly below the normal reference range (hypoglycemia). Administering a fast-acting carbohydrate, such as non-diet soda, helps to quickly increase the blood glucose level to a safer range. This intervention addresses the immediate need to correct the hypoglycemia and prevent potential complications such as confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
Choice C reason: Collecting a blood specimen by venipuncture to send to the laboratory for serum glucose analysis is not the first intervention to implement. While laboratory confirmation of blood glucose levels can be important, the immediate priority is to treat the hypoglycemia. Delaying treatment to collect a laboratory specimen could result in worsening of the client's condition. Immediate administration of a fast-acting carbohydrate should be prioritized.
Choice D reason: Documenting the glucose reading in the electronic medical record (EMR) is important but not the first priority. While accurate documentation is necessary for ongoing care, the immediate intervention should focus on treating the hypoglycemia. Once the client's blood glucose level has been stabilized, the nurse can then document the reading and subsequent interventions in the EMR.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reviewing written and verbal instructions for a reduced sodium diet is not directly related to the management of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). While a healthy diet can contribute to overall well-being, dietary sodium does not have a significant impact on intraocular pressure or glaucoma management. Therefore, this intervention does not directly address the client's primary condition of POAG.
Choice B reason: Teaching strategies for aseptic administration of the eye drops is a critical intervention for clients with POAG. Proper administration of ophthalmic drops is essential to avoid contamination and infection. Aseptic techniques include washing hands before administering the drops, avoiding touching the dropper tip to any surface (including the eye), and ensuring that the dropper cap is replaced tightly after use. These measures help maintain the sterility of the medication and prevent complications such as eye infections, which can exacerbate the client's condition.
Choice C reason: Describing how the use of the eye drops will help improve peripheral vision is not entirely accurate in the context of POAG. The primary goal of ophthalmic drops for POAG is to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve, thereby preserving the remaining vision. These drops do not typically improve peripheral vision that has already been lost. Educating the client with accurate information about the purpose and benefits of the drops helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence to the treatment regimen.
Choice D reason: Teaching the client to apply pressure over the inner eye corner (punctal occlusion) after administering eye drops is an important intervention. Punctal occlusion helps prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed systemically. This technique increases the contact time of the medication with the eye, enhancing its effectiveness and reducing potential systemic side effects. Clients should be instructed to gently press the inner corner of the eye for a few minutes after instilling the drops to ensure maximum benefit.
Choice E reason: Explaining the need to continue eye drops for the rest of their life is essential for clients with POAG. Glaucoma is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management to control intraocular pressure and prevent progression of the disease. Discontinuing the medication can lead to elevated intraocular pressures and irreversible vision loss. Clients should understand the importance of adherence to their prescribed treatment regimen and the lifelong commitment to managing their condition to preserve their vision and quality of life.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the chin down and tilting the head for dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) during meals is not directly related to managing mucositis. While it may help with swallowing difficulties, it does not address the inflammation and pain caused by mucositis.
Choice B reason: Normal saline mouth rinses as swish and spit after meals and bedtime is an effective intervention for managing mucositis. Rinsing with saline helps to keep the mouth clean, reduce bacterial load, and soothe inflamed tissues. It can also help to remove food particles and debris, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing. Saline rinses are gentle and do not contain irritating ingredients, making them ideal for sensitive oral tissues affected by mucositis.
Choice C reason: Eating high caloric meals to prevent weight loss is important for overall nutrition, especially for clients undergoing cancer treatment. However, it does not specifically address the management of mucositis. High caloric meals alone will not alleviate the pain, inflammation, and ulceration associated with mucositis. Clients with mucositis often have difficulty eating due to pain, so focusing on soothing and healing the oral tissues is a priority before addressing caloric intake.
Choice D reason: Using a commercial mouthwash for xerostomia (dry mouth) is not recommended for managing mucositis. Many commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that can further irritate the already inflamed mucous membranes. It is better to use a gentle and soothing rinse, such as saline, to manage mucositis symptoms and promote healing of the oral tissues.
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