The practical nurse (PN) reports that a client who has a fingerstick glucose of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) is alert and diaphoretic. Which action should the charge nurse take?

Reference Ranges

Glucose [Reference Range: 0 to 50 years: 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]

Collect a blood sample for hemoglobin Alc.

Give the client a glass of orange juice.

Notify the healthcare provider.

Assess client for polyuria and polyphagia.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

In this situation, the client has a fingerstick glucose level of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) and is alert but diaphoretic. The charge nurse should take the following action:

Give the client a glass of orange juice.

A glucose level of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) is considered significantly low (hypoglycemia), and the client's symptoms of diaphoresis indicate that the low glucose level is likely causing the symptoms. Providing the client with a glass of orange juice or another source of fast-acting carbohydrate is appropriate to quickly raise the blood sugar level and alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Collecting a blood sample for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is not necessary in this acute situation. HbA1c reflects the average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months and is used to assess long-term glycemic control in clients with diabetes. It does not provide immediate information or guide immediate interventions for acute hypoglycemia.

Notifying the healthcare provider is not the first action to take in this situation. The client's low glucose level can be promptly addressed by administering a source of fast-acting carbohydrate, such as orange juice. If the client's symptoms persist or worsen despite appropriate intervention, or if there are other concerning factors, then notifying the healthcare provider would be appropriate.

Assessing the client for polyuria (excessive urination) and polyphagia (excessive hunger) is important in the overall management of diabetes, but it is not the immediate action to take in this acute situation of hypoglycemia. The priority at this time is to address the low blood sugar level and relieve the client's symptoms.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A.Tingling on the tongue or lips is an early sign of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during an intravenous pyelogram. This type of reaction can quickly progress to more severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis, so it is crucial to recognize and respond to it promptly.

B. Episodes of shivering: Shivering is not typically an early sign of an allergic reaction to contrast dye. It might indicate a reaction to temperature or anxiety but is not as immediately concerning as symptoms of an allergic reaction.

C. Salty taste in the mouth: A salty or metallic taste is a common and benign side effect of the contrast dye and is not indicative of an adverse reaction.

D. Difficulty breathing: Difficulty breathing is a severe and later sign of an allergic reaction. By the time this symptom appears, the reaction has progressed and immediate intervention is necessary.

A. Genetically inherited disorders of family members. B. Frequency of laxative use for chronic constipation. C. Length and frequency of the client's tobacco use. D. Ingestion of shellfish or fish oil capsules daily.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect- Genetically inherited disorders of family members: While a family history of certain disorders might provide some insight, it is not typically the primary cause of elevated serum magnesium levels in an older adult.
B) Correct- Elevated serum magnesium levels are commonly associated with chronic laxative use, especially those containing magnesium-based compounds. Laxatives can lead to excessive magnesium intake, causing hypermagnesemia.
C. Incorrect- Smoking is not a common cause of elevated serum magnesium levels.

D. Incorrect- While dietary sources can contribute to magnesium intake, chronic laxative use is a more likely cause in this context.

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The practical nurse (PN) reports that a client who has a fingerstick glucose of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) is alert and diaphoretic. Which action should the charge nurse take? Reference Ranges Glucose [Reference Range: 0 to 50 years: 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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The practical nurse (PN) reports that a client who has a fingerstick glucose of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) is alert and diaphoretic. Which action should the charge nurse take?

Reference Ranges

Glucose [Reference Range: 0 to 50 years: 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]