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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Assessing and managing pain is a crucial aspect of providing atraumatic care for any post-operative patient, including a child. The child cried throughout the procedure and will likely experience discomfort and pain after the surgery. It is important to assess the child's pain levels regularly using appropriate pain assessment tools and provide appropriate pain management interventions to ensure their comfort and well-being.
While antibiotics may be prescribed if there is a surgical site infection or specific indications for their use, it is not mentioned as a priority in this scenario. The focus is on providing atraumatic care post-operatively, and pain assessment takes precedence.
Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and wound care are important components of the child's overall care, but they may not be the immediate priority post-operatively.
These interventions can be incorporated into the plan of care as needed, but addressing pain is of utmost importance in the immediate post-operative period.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Certain medications can contribute to constipation as a side effect. Reviewing the client's medication list will help identify any potential medications that may be causing or exacerbating constipation.
Understanding the client's current approach to managing constipation, such as dietary changes, laxative use, or other remedies, will provide insight into their self-care practices and effectiveness of current interventions.
Diet plays a crucial role in bowel regularity. Assessing the client's dietary habits, including fiber intake and hydration, can help identify potential factors contributing to constipation.
Physical activity and exercise promote bowel regularity by stimulating intestinal motility. Evaluating the client's level of physical activity and exercise routine can provide information on their overall mobility and potential impact on bowel function.
The next scheduled visit with the healthcare provider may be important for the overall management of the client's health but may not be directly related to formulating a plan of care specifically for constipation.
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