The nurse will plan to teach a patient who has pernicious anemia about the need for:

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and reducing glucose utilization in the body. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. The client's history of urinary tract infection and the use of Prednisone suggest that the infection might have triggered the development of DKA.

It's important to note that DKA can occur even when a person is taking insulin as prescribed and following their diet carefully if other factors contribute to the development of DKA, such as an underlying infection or the use of certain medications like Prednisone. The nurse should further assess the client's condition and notify the healthcare provider to initiate appropriate management for DKA.

Hip spica casts are typically used to immobilize the hip joint and are often used in the management of hip dysplasia or after surgery. These casts can cause restricted mobility and limit blood flow to the legs and feet, which can lead to complications such as swelling, decreased circulation, or pressure sores.

Checking capillary refill in the toes is a critical nursing intervention to assess for the presence of adequate circulation and blood flow to the affected limb. If capillary refill is slow or absent, it may indicate compromised circulation and require immediate intervention to prevent further complications.

Palpating a brachial pulse, assessing bilateral radial pulses, or auscultating the heart rate apically are not the priority nursing actions for an infant with a hip spica cast. While monitoring vital signs and circulation are important components of nursing care, the priority at this stage is to assess and manage the immediate postoperative needs of the patient, including monitoring for potential complications related to the hip spica cast.