The practical nurse (PN) notices that one of the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) working in the long- term care facility consistently records subnormal temperatures when using a tympanic thermometer.

Which action should the PN take first?

Choice A rationale:
Correcting electrolytes that are out of normal range is a crucial goal of therapy for this client. In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the body’s cells are unable to use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin. This leads to the breakdown of fat for energy, producing ketones as a by-product. Ketones are acidic and can cause the blood’s pH to decrease, leading to metabolic acidosis. This process also leads to an increased production and excretion of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. Therefore, correcting these electrolyte imbalances is a key goal of therapy.
Choice B rationale:
While promoting oxygenation to tissues is generally important in critical care, it is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. The primary issues in DKA are metabolic in nature, including hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Preventing hyperventilation is not a specific goal in the management of DKA. Hyperventilation in DKA is a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis (Kussmaul breathing). The body tries to expel more carbon dioxide to reduce the acidity of the blood.
Choice D rationale:
Reversing dehydration is another important goal of therapy for this client. In DKA, high blood glucose levels lead to osmotic diuresis, where water is drawn into the urine from the blood, leading to dehydration. This can cause hypotension and reduced tissue perfusion. Therefore, reversing dehydration through fluid replacement is a key part of treatment.
Choice E rationale:
Replacing insulin is a fundamental goal of therapy for this client. Insulin deficiency is the primary cause of DKA. Insulin allows glucose to enter cells where it can be used for energy, preventing the breakdown of fat for energy and the subsequent production of ketones.
Choice F rationale:
Providing respiratory support may be necessary in severe cases of DKA where the patient’s compensatory respiratory efforts are insufficient to maintain adequate gas exchange. However, it is not one of the primary goals of therapy in DKA management.

Choice A rationale:

Assessment of tobacco use geared toward adolescents. Rationale: While assessing tobacco use is essential for promoting health in adolescents, the question is about developing a class about mental health and addressing the increase in suicides in the community. Assessing tobacco use is not directly related to this topic. Stress self-management techniques are more relevant.

Choice B rationale:

Exploration of stress self-management techniques. Rationale: This is the correct answer. Addressing stress and teaching adolescents self-management techniques is crucial in the context of mental health promotion and suicide prevention. Adolescents often face stressors, and providing them with effective strategies to manage stress can contribute to their overall well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Video with statistics showing trends in suicide rates. Rationale: While providing statistics about suicide rates can be informative, it may not be the most engaging or effective method for teaching adolescents about mental health and stress management. Interactive activities and skill-building exercises are often more beneficial.

Choice D rationale:

Handouts for local substance abuse treatment centers. Rationale: Providing handouts for substance abuse treatment centers