The older adult who is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus has a sensory impairment and unstable blood sugar levels. Which of the following alterations in sensory function does the nurse address in the plan of care for stabilizing the blood sugar?

Choice A reason: Controlling fluid balance is the most important goal in the nursing plan of care to decrease the frequency of hospitalizations for acute exacerbations of HF in older adults, as fluid overload is the main cause of HF worsening and hospital admission. Fluid balance can be controlled by monitoring weight, intake and output, edema, and lung sounds, and by administering diuretics, restricting sodium and fluid intake, and elevating the legs.

Choice B reason: Controlling blood pressure is an important goal in the nursing plan of care to decrease the frequency of hospitalizations for acute exacerbations of HF in older adults, as hypertension is a risk factor and a complication of HF. However, it is not the most important goal, as blood pressure may not always reflect the fluid status or the severity of HF. Blood pressure can be controlled by administering antihypertensive medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers, and by encouraging lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, weight management, and stress reduction.

Choice C reason: Preventing deconditioning is an important goal in the nursing plan of care to decrease the frequency of hospitalizations for acute exacerbations of HF in older adults, as deconditioning is a common problem in HF patients due to reduced physical activity, fatigue, and muscle wasting. However, it is not the most important goal, as deconditioning may not directly affect the fluid balance or the cardiac function. Deconditioning can be prevented by providing exercise training, such as aerobic, resistance, or interval training, and by promoting self-care and adherence to the treatment regimen.

Choice D reason: Maintaining client safety is an important goal in the nursing plan of care to decrease the frequency of hospitalizations for acute exacerbations of HF in older adults, as HF patients are at risk of falls, injuries, infections, or adverse drug reactions. However, it is not the most important goal, as client safety may not specifically address the fluid balance or the cardiac function. Client safety can be maintained by providing a safe environment, such as removing clutter, providing adequate lighting, and using assistive devices, and by preventing complications, such as monitoring for signs of infection, bleeding, or electrolyte imbalance, and by educating the client and the family about the medications, the signs and symptoms of HF worsening, and the emergency measures.

Choice A reason: A nasogastric tube may be necessary for some patients with dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing, but not for dysarthria, which is difficulty speaking.

Choice B reason: Stems from severe rheumatoid arthritis is false because dysarthria is caused by damage to the nerves or muscles that control speech, not by inflammation of the joints.

Choice C reason: Physical therapy can be beneficial is true because dysarthria can be improved by exercises that strengthen the speech muscles and improve coordination.

Choice D reason: Can affect the balance is false because dysarthria does not affect the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.