Diabetes prep u
A client is diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Which assessment finding best supports a nursing diagnosis of Ineffective coping related to diabetes mellitus? Recent weight gain of 20 lb (9.1 kg) Failure to monitor blood glucose levels Skipping insulin doses during illness Crying whenever diabetes is mentioned
Crying whenever diabetes is mentioned A client who cries whenever diabetes is mentioned is demonstrating ineffective coping. A recent weight gain and failure to monitor blood glucose levels would support a nursing diagnosis of Noncompliance: Failure to adhere to therapeutic regimen. Skipping insulin doses during illness would support a nursing diagnosis of Deficient knowledge related to treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Which information should be included in the teaching plan for a client receiving glargine, which is "peakless" basal insulin? Administer the total daily dosage in 2 doses. Draw up the drug first, then add regular insulin. Glargine is rapidly absorbed and has a fast onset of action. Do not mix with other insulins.
Do not mix with other insulins.
Which of the following would the nurse most likely assess in a client with diabetes who is experiencing autonomic neuropathy? Skeletal deformities Paresthesias Erectile dysfunction Soft tissue ulceration
Erectile dysfunction Autonomic neuropathy affects organ functioning. According the American Diabetes Association, up to 50% of men with diabetes develop erectile dysfunction when nerves that promote erection become impaired. Skeletal deformities and soft tissue ulcers may occur with motor neuropathy. Paresthesias are associated with sensory neuropathy.
Which factor is the focus of nutrition intervention for clients with type 2 diabetes? weight loss carbohydrate intake protein metabolism blood glucose level
weight loss Weight loss is the focus of nutrition intervention for clients with type 2 diabetes. A low-calorie diet may improve clinical symptoms; even a mild to moderate weight loss such as 10 to 20 lb may lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin action.
A client is taking glyburide (DiaBeta), 1.25 mg P.O. daily, to treat type 2 diabetes. Which statement indicates the need for further client teaching about managing this disease? "I always carry hard candy to eat in case my blood sugar level drops." "I avoid exposure to the sun as much as possible." "I always wear my medical identification bracelet." "I skip lunch when I don't feel hungry."
"I skip lunch when I don't feel hungry." The client requires further teaching if he states that he skips meals. A client who is receiving an oral antidiabetic agent should eat meals on a regular schedule because skipping a meal increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Carrying hard candy, avoiding exposure to the sun, and always wearing a medical identification bracelet indicate effective teaching.
Which instruction should a nurse give to a client with diabetes mellitus when teaching about "sick day rules"? "Don't take your insulin or oral antidiabetic agent if you don't eat." "It's okay for your blood glucose to go above 300 mg/dl while you're sick." "Test your blood glucose every 4 hours." "Follow your regular meal plan, even if you're nauseous."
"Test your blood glucose every 4 hours." The nurse should instruct a client with diabetes mellitus to check his blood glucose levels every 3 to 4 hours and take insulin or an oral antidiabetic agent as usual, even when he's sick. If the client's blood glucose level rises above 300 mg/dl, he should call his physician immediately. If the client is unable to follow the regular meal plan because of nausea, he should substitute soft foods, such as gelatin, soup, and custard.
A nurse is preparing a continuous insulin infusion for a child with diabetic ketoacidosis and a blood glucose level of 800 mg/dl. Which solution is the most appropriate at the beginning of therapy? 100 units of regular insulin in normal saline solution 100 units of neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin in normal saline solution 100 units of regular insulin in dextrose 5% in water 100 units of NPH insulin in dextrose 5% in water
100 units of regular insulin in normal saline solution Continuous insulin infusions use only short-acting regular insulin. Insulin is added to normal saline solution and administered until the client's blood glucose level falls. Further along in the therapy, a dextrose solution is administered to prevent hypoglycemia.
A nurse is teaching a client with diabetes mellitus about self-management of his condition. The nurse should instruct the client to administer 1 unit of insulin for every: 10 g of carbohydrates. 15 g of carbohydrates. 20 g of carbohydrates. 25 g of carbohydrates.
15 g of carbohydrates. The nurse should instruct the client to administer 1 unit of insulin for every 15 g of carbohydrates.
Glycosylated hemoglobin reflects blood glucose concentrations over which period of time? 1 month 3 months 6 months 9 months
3 months Glycosylated hemoglobin is a blood test that reflects average blood glucose concentrations over a period of 3 months.
A client newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes has an unusual increase in blood glucose from bedtime to morning. The physician suspects the client is experiencing insulin waning. Based on this diagnosis, the nurse expects which change to the client's medication regimen? Administering a dose of intermediate-acting insulin before the evening meal Changing the time of evening injection of intermediate-acting insulin from dinnertime to bedtime Decreasing evening bedtime dose of intermediate-acting insulin and administering a bedtime snack Increasing morning dose of long-acting insulin
Administering a dose of intermediate-acting insulin before the evening meal Insulin waning is a progressive rise in blood glucose form bedtime to morning. Treatment includes increasing the evening (before dinner or bedtime) dose of intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin or instituting a dose of insulin before the evening meal if that is not already part of the treatment regimen.
A client is admitted to the health care center with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The medical reports indicate a history of type 1 diabetes. The nurse suspects the client's symptoms to be those of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which action will help the nurse confirm the diagnosis? Assess the client's ability to take a deep breath Assess the client's ability to move all extremities Assess the client's breath odor Assess for excessive sweating
Assess the client's breath odor DKA is commonly preceded by a day or more of polyuria, polydipsia, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, with eventual stupor and coma if not treated. The breath has a characteristic fruity odor due to the presence of ketoacids. Checking the client's breath will help the nurse confirm the diagnosis.
A client with a serum glucose level of 618 mg/dl is admitted to the facility. He's awake and oriented, has hot dry skin, and has the following vital signs: temperature of 100.6° F (38.1° C), heart rate of 116 beats/minute, and blood pressure of 108/70 mm Hg. Based on these assessment findings, which nursing diagnosis takes highest priority? Deficient fluid volume related to osmotic diuresis Decreased cardiac output related to elevated heart rate Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to insulin deficiency Ineffective thermoregulation related to dehydration
Deficient fluid volume related to osmotic diuresis A serum glucose level of 618 mg/dl indicates hyperglycemia, which causes polyuria and fluid volume deficit, making Deficient fluid volume related to osmotic diuresis the highest priority. In this client, tachycardia is more likely to result from fluid volume deficit than from decreased cardiac output because his blood pressure is normal. Although the client's serum glucose is elevated, food isn't a priority because fluids and insulin should be administered to lower the serum glucose level. Therefore, a diagnosis of Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements isn't appropriate. A temperature of 100.6° F isn't life-threatening, eliminating Ineffective thermoregulation as the top priority.
A client with diabetes mellitus is receiving an oral antidiabetic agent. The nurse observes for which condition when caring for this client? Polyuria Hypoglycemia Blurred vision Polydipsia
Hypoglycemia The nurse should observe the client receiving an oral antidiabetic agent for signs of hypoglycemia. The time when the reaction might occur is not predictable and could be from 30 to 60 minutes to several hours after the drug is ingested. Polyuria, polydipsia, and blurred vision are symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
The client who is managing diabetes through diet and insulin control asks the nurse why exercise is important. Which is the best response by the nurse to support adding exercise to the daily routine? Increases ability for glucose to get into the cell and lowers blood sugar Creates an overall feeling of well-being and lowers risk of depression Decreases need for pancreas to produce more cells Decreases risk of developing insulin resistance and hyperglycemia
Increases ability for glucose to get into the cell and lowers blood sugar Exercise increases trans membrane glucose transporter levels in the skeletal muscles. This allows the glucose to leave the blood and enter into the cells where it can be used as fuel. Exercise can provide an overall feeling of well-being but is not the primary purpose of including in the daily routine of diabetic clients. Exercise does not stimulate the pancreas to produce more cells. Exercise can promote weight loss and decrease risk of insulin resistance but not the primary reason for adding to daily routine.
The nurse is describing the action of insulin in the body to a client newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Which of the following would the nurse explain as being the primary action? It enhances the transport of glucose across the cell membrane. It aids in the process of gluconeogenesis. It stimulates the pancreatic beta cells. It decreases the intestinal absorption of glucose.
It enhances the transport of glucose across the cell membrane. Insulin carries glucose into body cells as their preferred source of energy. Besides, it promotes the liver's storage of glucose as glycogen and inhibits the breakdown of glycogen back into glucose. Insulin does not aid in gluconeogenesis but inhibits the breakdown of glycogen back into glucose.
Which clinical characteristic is associated with type 1 diabetes (previously referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus)? Presence of islet cell antibodies Obesity Rare ketosis Requirement for oral hypoglycemic agents
Presence of islet cell antibodies Individuals with type 1 diabetes often have islet cell antibodies and are usually thin or demonstrate recent weight loss at the time of diagnosis. These individuals are prone to experiencing ketosis when insulin is absent and require exogenous insulin to preserve life.
Lispro (Humalog) is an example of which type of insulin? Rapid-acting Intermediate-acting Short-acting Long-acting
Rapid-acting
Which of the following factors would a nurse identify as a most likely cause of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in a client with diabetes? The client continues medication therapy despite adequate food intake. The client has not consumed sufficient calories. The client has been exercising more than usual. The client has eaten and has not taken or received insulin.
The client has eaten and has not taken or received insulin. If the client has eaten and has not taken or received insulin, DKA is more likely to develop. Hypoglycemia is more likely to develop if the client has not consumed food and continues to take insulin or oral antidiabetic medications, if the client has not consumed sufficient calories, or if client has been exercising more than usual.
A nurse is preparing to administer two types of insulin to a client with diabetes mellitus. What is the correct procedure for preparing this medication? The short-acting insulin is withdrawn before the intermediate-acting insulin. The intermediate-acting insulin is withdrawn before the short-acting insulin. Different types of insulin are not to be mixed in the same syringe. If administered immediately, there is no requirement for withdrawing one type of insulin before another.
The short-acting insulin is withdrawn before the intermediate-acting insulin. When combining two types of insulin in the same syringe, the short-acting regular insulin is withdrawn into the syringe first and the intermediate-acting insulin is added next. This practice is referred to as "clear to cloudy."
A client with diabetes mellitus develops sinusitis and otitis media accompanied by a temperature of 100.8° F (38.2° C). What effect do these findings have on his need for insulin? They have no effect. They decrease the need for insulin. They increase the need for insulin. They cause wide fluctuations in the need for insulin.
They increase the need for insulin. Insulin requirements increase in response to growth, pregnancy, increased food intake, stress, surgery, infection, illness, increased insulin antibodies, and some medications. Insulin requirements are decreased by hypothyroidism, decreased food intake, exercise, and some medications.
After teaching a client with type 1 diabetes who is scheduled to undergo an islet cell transplant, which client statement indicates successful teaching? "This transplant will provide me with a cure for my diabetes." "I will receive a whole organ with extra cells to produce insulin." "They'll need to create a connection from the pancreas to allow enzymes to drain." "I might need insulin later on but probably not as much or as often."
"I might need insulin later on but probably not as much or as often." Transplanted islet cells tend to lose their ability to function over time, and approximately 70% of recipients resume insulin administration in 2 years. However, the amount of insulin and the frequency of its administration are reduced because of improved control of blood glucose levels. Thus, this type of transplant doesn't cure diabetes. It requires the use of two human pancreases to obtain sufficient numbers of islet cells for transplantation. A whole organ transplant requires a means for exocrine enzyme drainage and venous absorption of insulin.
Health teaching for a patient with diabetes who is prescribed Humulin N, an intermediate NPH insulin, would include which of the following advice? "Your insulin will begin to act in 15 minutes." "You should expect your insulin to reach its peak effectiveness by 9:00 AM if you take it at 8:00 AM." "You should take your insulin after breakfast and after dinner." "Your insulin will last 8 hours, and you will need to take it three times a day."
"You should take your insulin after breakfast and after dinner." NPH (Humulin N) insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that has an onset of 2 to 4 hours, a peak effectiveness of 4 to 12 hours, and a duration of 16 to 20 hours.
A 16-year-old client newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes has a very low body weight despite eating regular meals. The client is upset because friends frequently state, "You look anorexic." Which statement by the nurse would be the best response to help this client understand the cause of weight loss due to this condition? "I will refer you to a dietician who can help you with your weight." "You may be having undiagnosed infections, causing you to lose extra weight." "Your body is using protein and fat for energy instead of glucose." "Don't worry about what your friends think; the carbohydrates you eat are being quickly digested, increasing your metabolism."
"Your body is using protein and fat for energy instead of glucose." Persons with type 1 diabetes, particularly those in poor control of the condition, tend to be thin because when the body cannot effectively utilize glucose for energy (no insulin supply), it begins to break down protein and fat as an alternate energy source. Patients may be underweight at the onset of type 1 diabetes because of rapid weight loss from severe hyperglycemia. The goal initially may be to provide a higher-calorie diet to regain lost weight and blood glucose control.
What is the duration of regular insulin? 4 to 6 hours 3 to 5 hours 12 to 16 hours 24 hours
4 to 6 hours The duration of regular insulin is 4 to 6 hours; 3 to 5 hours is the duration for rapid-acting insulin such as Novolog. The duration of NPH insulin is 12 to 16 hours. The duration of Lantus insulin is 24 hours.
A client with diabetes comes to the clinic for a follow-up visit. The nurse reviews the client's glycosylated hemoglobin test results. Which result would indicate to the nurse that the client's blood glucose level has been well controlled? 6.5% 7.5% 8.0% 8.5%
6.5% Normally, the level of glycosylated hemoglobin is less than 7%. Thus, a level of 6.5% would indicate that the client's blood glucose level is well controlled. According to the American Diabetes Association, a glycosylated hemoglobin of 7% is equivalent to an average blood glucose level of 150 mg/dl. Thus, a level of 7.5% would indicate less control. Amount of 8% or greater indicate that control of the client's blood glucose level has been inadequate during the previous 2 to 3 months.
A client is receiving insulin lispro at 7:30 AM. The nurse ensures that the client has breakfast by which time? 7:45 AM 8:00 AM 8:15 AM 8:30 AM
7:45 AM Insulin lispro has an onset of 5 to 15 minutes. Therefore, the nurse would need to ensure that the client has his breakfast by 7:45 AM at the latest. Otherwise, the client may experience hypoglycemia.
Which statement is true regarding gestational diabetes? It occurs in most pregnancies. Onset usually occurs in the first trimester. A glucose challenge test should be performed between 24 and 28 weeks. There is a low risk for perinatal complications.
A glucose challenge test should be performed between 24 and 28 weeks. A glucose challenge test should be performed between 24 and 28 weeks in women at average risk. It occurs in less than 10% of all pregnancies. Onset usually occurs in the second or third trimester. There is an above-normal risk for perinatal complications.
When administering insulin to a client with type 1 diabetes, which of the following would be most important for the nurse to keep in mind? Duration of the insulin Accuracy of the dosage Area for insulin injection Technique for injecting
Accuracy of the dosage The measurement of insulin is most important and must be accurate because clients may be sensitive to minute dose changes. The duration, area, and technique for injecting should also to be noted.
A client is admitted with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNS). Which laboratory finding should the nurse expect in this client? Arterial pH 7.25 Plasma bicarbonate 12 mEq/L Blood glucose level 1,100 mg/dl Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 15 mg/dl
Blood glucose level 1,100 mg/dl HHNS occurs most frequently in older clients. It can occur in clients with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus but occurs most commonly in those with type 2. The blood glucose level rises to above 600 mg/dl in response to illness or infection. As the blood glucose level rises, the body attempts to rid itself of the excess glucose by producing urine. Initially, the client produces large quantities of urine. If fluid intake isn't increased at this time, the client becomes dehydrated, causing BUN levels to rise. Arterial pH and plasma bicarbonate levels typically remain within normal limits.
The nurse is reviewing the initial laboratory test results of a client diagnosed with DKA. Which of the following would the nurse expect to find? Blood glucose level of 250 mg/dL Blood pH of 6.9 Serum bicarbonate of 19 mEq/L PaCO2 of 40 mm Hg
Blood pH of 6.9 With DKA, blood glucose levels are elevated to 300 to 1000 mg/dL or more. Urine contains glucose and ketones. The blood pH ranges from 6.8 to 7.3. The serum bicarbonate level is decreased to levels from 0 to 15 mEq/L. The compensatory breathing pattern can lower the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO2) to levels of 10 to 30 mm Hg.
Which factors will cause hypoglycemia in a client with diabetes? Select all that apply. Client has not consumed food and continues to take insulin or oral antidiabetic medications. Client has not consumed sufficient calories. Client has been exercising more than usual. Client has been sleeping excessively. Client is experiencing effects of the aging process.
Client has not consumed food and continues to take insulin or oral antidiabetic medications. Client has not consumed sufficient calories. Client has been exercising more than usual Hypoglycemia can occur when a client with diabetes is not eating at all and continues to take insulin or oral antidiabetic medications, is not eating sufficient calories to compensate for glucose-lowering medications, or is exercising more than usual. Excessive sleep and aging are not factors in the onset of hypoglycemia.
A client's blood glucose level is 45 mg/dl. The nurse should be alert for which signs and symptoms? Coma, anxiety, confusion, headache, and cool, moist skin Kussmaul respirations, dry skin, hypotension, and bradycardia Polyuria, polydipsia, hypotension, and hypernatremia Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and weight loss
Coma, anxiety, confusion, headache, and cool, moist skin Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (indicated by a blood glucose level of 45 mf/dl) include anxiety, restlessness, headache, irritability, confusion, diaphoresis, cool skin, tremors, coma, and seizures. Kussmaul respirations, dry skin, hypotension, and bradycardia are signs of diabetic ketoacidosis. Excessive thirst, hunger, hypotension, and hypernatremia are symptoms of diabetes insipidus. Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and weight loss are classic signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
An older adult patient is in the hospital being treated for sepsis related to a urinary tract infection. The patient has started to have an altered sense of awareness, profound dehydration, and hypotension. What does the nurse suspect the patient is experiencing? Systemic inflammatory response syndrome Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome Multiple-organ dysfunction syndrome Diabetic ketoacidosis
Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS) occurs most often in older people (50 to 70 years of age) who have no known history of diabetes or who have type 2 diabetes (Reynolds, 2012). The clinical picture of HHS is one of hypotension, profound dehydration (dry mucous membranes, poor skin turgor), tachycardia, and variable neurologic signs (e.g., alteration of consciousness, seizures, hemiparesis).
For a client with hyperglycemia, which assessment finding best supports a nursing diagnosis of Deficient fluid volume? Cool, clammy skin Jugular vein distention Increased urine osmolarity Decreased serum sodium level
Increased urine osmolarity In hyperglycemia, urine osmolarity (the measurement of dissolved particles in the urine) increases as glucose particles move into the urine. The client experiences glucosuria and polyuria, losing body fluids and experiencing deficient fluid volume. Cool, clammy skin; jugular vein distention; and a decreased serum sodium level are signs of fluid volume excess, the opposite imbalance.
Which statement is correct regarding glargine insulin? Its peak action occurs in 2 to 3 hours. It cannot be mixed with any other type of insulin. It is absorbed rapidly. It is given twice daily.
It cannot be mixed with any other type of insulin.
The nurse is preparing to administer intermediate-acting insulin to a patient with diabetes. Which insulin will the nurse administer? NPH Iletin II Lispro (Humalog) Glargine (Lantus)
NPH Intermediate-acting insulins are called NPH insulin (neutral protamine Hagedorn) or Lente insulin. Lispro (Humalog) is rapid acting, Iletin II is short acting, and glargine (Lantus) is very long acting.
A nurse expects to find which signs and symptoms in a client experiencing hypoglycemia? Polyuria, headache, and fatigue Polyphagia and flushed, dry skin Polydipsia, pallor, and irritability Nervousness, diaphoresis, and confusion
Nervousness, diaphoresis, and confusion Signs and symptoms associated with hypoglycemia include nervousness, diaphoresis, weakness, light-headedness, confusion, paresthesia, irritability, headache, hunger, tachycardia, and changes in speech, hearing, or vision. If untreated, signs and symptoms may progress to unconsciousness, seizures, coma, and death. Polydipsia, polyuria, and polyphagia are symptoms associated with hyperglycemia.
The diabetic client asks the nurse why shoes and socks are removed at each office visit. Which assessment finding is most significant in determining the protocol for inspection of feet? Autonomic neuropathy Retinopathy Sensory neuropathy Nephropathy
Sensory neuropathy Neuropathy results from poor glucose control and decreased circulation to nerve tissues. Neuropathy involving sensory nerves located in the periphery can lead to lack of sensitivity, which increases the potential for soft tissue injury without client awareness. The feet are inspected on each visit to insure no injury or pressure has occurred. Autonomic neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy affect nerves to organs other than feet.
The pancreas continues to release a small amount of basal insulin overnight, while a person is sleeping. The nurse knows that if the body needs more sugar: The pancreatic hormone glucagon will stimulate the liver to release stored glucose. Insulin will be released to facilitate the transport of sugar. Glycogenesis will be decreased by the liver. The process of gluconeogenesis will be inhibited.
The pancreatic hormone glucagon will stimulate the liver to release stored glucose. When sugar levels are low, glucagon promotes hyperglycemia by stimulating the release of stored glucose. Glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis will both be increased. Insulin secretion would promote hypoglycemia.
A client receives a daily injection of glargine insulin at 7:00 a.m. When should the nurse monitor this client for a hypoglycemic reaction? Between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. Between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. This insulin has no peak action and does not cause a hypoglycemic reaction.
This insulin has no peak action and does not cause a hypoglycemic reaction. "Peakless" basal or very long-acting insulins are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use as a basal insulin; that is, the insulin is absorbed very slowly over 24 hours and can be given once a day. It has is no peak action.
A client with type 1 diabetes asks the nurse about taking an oral antidiabetic agent. The nurse explains that these medications are effective only if the client: prefers to take insulin orally. has type 2 diabetes. has type 1 diabetes. is pregnant and has type 2 diabetes.
has type 2 diabetes. Oral antidiabetic agents are effective only in adult clients with type 2 diabetes. Oral antidiabetic agents aren't effective in type 1 diabetes. Pregnant and lactating women aren't ordered oral antidiabetic agents because the effect on the fetus or breast-fed infant is uncertain.
A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a child who's just been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. When the child's mother stops the nurse in the hall, she's crying and anxious to talk about her son's condition. The nurse's best response is: "I can't talk now. I have to give your son his insulin as soon as possible." "If you'll wait in your son's room, the physician will talk with you as soon as he's free." "Everything will be just fine. I'll be back in a minute and then we can talk." "I'm going to give your son some insulin. Then I'll be happy to talk with you."
"I'm going to give your son some insulin. Then I'll be happy to talk with you." Attending to the mother's needs is a critical part of caring for a sick child. In this case however, administering insulin in a prompt manner supersedes the mother's needs. By informing the mother that she's going to administer the insulin and will then make time to talk with her, the nurse recognizes the mother's needs as legitimate. She provides a reasonable response while attending to the priority of administering insulin as soon as possible. Telling the mother that she can't talk with her or telling her to wait for the physician could increase the mother's fear and anxiety. The nurse shouldn't tell the mother that everything will be fine; the nurse doesn't know that everything will be fine.
Which of the following is a characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)? Select all that apply. Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine Rapid onset More common in type 1 diabetes Absent ketones Normal arterial pH level
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine Rapid onset More common in type 1 diabetes DKA is characterized by an elevated BUN and creatinine, rapid onset, and it is more common in type 1 diabetes. Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) is characterized by the absence of urine and serum ketones and a normal arterial pH level.
Which is the primary dietary consideration for a client receiving insulin isophane suspension (NPH) at breakfast? Make sure breakfast is not delayed. Provide fewest amount of carbohydrates at lunch meal. Encourage midday snack. Delay dinner meal.
Encourage midday snack. Because NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin that peaks in approximately 4 to 12 hours, a midday snack should be included in daily calorie intake to avoid hypoglycemia. NPH insulin has no immediate effects. Carbohydrates are distributed throughout the meal plan of diabetics to avoid highs and lows. Delaying dinner meal is not indicated with NPH insulin use.
Which assessment finding is most important in determining nursing care for a client with diabetes mellitus? Respirations of 12 breaths/minute Cloudy urine Blood sugar 170 mg/dL Fruity breath
Fruity breath The rising ketones and acetone in the blood can lead to acidosis and be detected as a fruity odor on the breath. Ketoacidosis needs to be treated to prevent further complications such as Kussmaul respirations (fast, labored breathing) and renal shutdown. A blood sugar of 170 mg/dL is not ideal but will not result in glycosuria and/or trigger the classic symptoms of diabetes mellitus. Cloudy urine may indicate a UTI.
A nurse is preparing to discharge a client with coronary artery disease and hypertension who is at risk for type 2 diabetes. Which information is important to include in the discharge teaching? How to control blood glucose through lifestyle modification with diet and exercise How to self-inject insulin How to monitor ketones daily How to recognize signs of diabetic ketoacidosis
How to control blood glucose through lifestyle modification with diet and exercise Persons at high risk for type 2 diabetes receive standard lifestyle recommendations plus metformin, standard lifestyle recommendations plus placebo, or an intensive program of lifestyle modifications. The 16-lesson curriculum of the intensive program of lifestyle modifications focuses on reducing weight by more than 7% of initial body weight and moderate-intensity physical activity. It also includes behavior modification strategies designed to help clients achieve the goals of weight reduction and participation in exercise. These findings demonstrate that type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in persons at high risk for the disease.
When the nurse is caring for a patient with type 1 diabetes, what clinical manifestation would be a priority to closely monitor? Hypoglycemia Hyponatremia Ketonuria Polyphagia
Hypoglycemia The therapeutic goal for diabetes management is to achieve normal blood glucose levels (euglycemia) without hypoglycemia while maintaining a high quality of life.
Which combination of adverse effects should a nurse monitor for when administering IV insulin to a client with diabetic ketoacidosis? Hypokalemia and hypoglycemia Hypocalcemia and hyperkalemia Hyperkalemia and hyperglycemia Hypernatremia and hypercalcemia
Hypokalemia and hypoglycemia Blood glucose needs to be monitored in clients receiving IV insulin because of the risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia might occur if too much insulin is administered. Hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia, might occur because I.V. insulin forces potassium into cells, thereby lowering the plasma level of potassium. Calcium and sodium levels aren't affected by IV insulin administration.
The nurse is educating the client with diabetes on setting up a sick plan to manage blood glucose control during times of minor illness such as influenza. Which is the most important teaching item to include? Increase frequency of glucose self-monitoring. Decrease food intake until nausea passes. Do not take insulin if not eating. Take half the usual dose of insulin until symptoms resolve.
Increase frequency of glucose self-monitoring. Minor illnesses such as influenza can present a special challenge to a diabetic client. The body's need for insulin increases during illness. Therefore, the client should take the prescribed insulin dose, increase the frequency of glucose monitoring, and maintain adequate fluid intake to counteract the dehydrating effects of hyperglycemia. Clear liquids and juices are encouraged. Taking less than normal dose of insulin may lead to ketoacidosis.
A 60-year-old client comes to the ED reporting weakness, vision problems, increased thirst, increased urination, and frequent infections that do not seem to heal easily. The physician suspects that the client has diabetes. Which classic symptom should the nurse watch for to confirm the diagnosis of diabetes? Numbness Increased hunger Fatigue Dizziness
Increased hunger The classic symptoms of diabetes are the three Ps: polyuria (increased urination), polydipsia (increased thirst), and polyphagia (increased hunger). Some of the other symptoms include tingling, numbness, and loss of sensation in the extremities and fatigue.
A patient is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. What clinical characteristics does the nurse expect to see in this patient? Select all that apply. Ketosis-prone Little or no endogenous insulin Obesity at diagnoses Younger than 30 years of age Older than 65 years of age
Little or no endogenous insulin Ketosis-prone Younger than 30 years of age
A client with diabetes is receiving an oral anti diabetic agent that acts to help the tissues use available insulin more efficiently. Which of the following agents would the nurse expect to administer? Metformin Glyburide Repaglinide Glipizide
Metformin Metformin is a biguanide and, along with the thiazolidinediones (rosiglitazone and pioglitazone), are categorized as insulin sensitizers; they help tissues use available insulin more efficiently. Glyburide and glipizide, which are sulfonylureas, and repaglinide, a meglitinide, are described as being insulin releasers because they stimulate the pancreas to secrete more insulin.
A characteristic of type 2 diabetes includes which of the following? No islet cell antibodies Often have islet antibodies Little insulin Ketosis-prone when insulin absent
No islet cell antibodies Type 2 diabetes is characterized by no islet cell antibodies or a decrease in endogenous insulin or increase with insulin resistance. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by production of little or no insulin; the patient is ketosis-prone when insulin is absent and often has islet cell antibodies.
A client who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 14 years ago is admitted to the medical-surgical unit with abdominal pain. On admission, the client's blood glucose level is 470 mg/dl. Which finding is most likely to accompany this blood glucose level? Cool, moist skin Rapid, thready pulse Arm and leg trembling Slow, shallow respirations
Rapid, thready pulse This client's abnormally high blood glucose level indicates hyperglycemia, which typically causes polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia. Because polyuria leads to fluid loss, the nurse should expect to assess signs of deficient fluid volume, such as a rapid, thready pulse; decreased blood pressure; and rapid respirations. Cool, moist skin and arm and leg trembling are associated with hypoglycemia. Rapid respirations — not slow, shallow ones — are associated with hyperglycemia.
The nurse is administering an insulin drip to a patient in ketoacidosis. What insulin does the nurse know is the only one that can be used intravenously? NPH Regular Lispro Lantus
Regular Short-acting insulins are called regular insulin (marked R on the bottle). Regular insulin is a clear solution and is usually administered 20 to 30 minutes before a meal, either alone or in combination with a longer-acting insulin. Regular insulin is the only insulin approved for IV use.
A patient has been newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and the nurse is assisting with the development of a meal plan. What step should be taken into consideration prior to making the meal plan? Making sure that the patient is aware that quantity of foods will be limited Ensuring that the patient understands that some favorite foods may not be allowed on the meal plan and substitutes will need to be found Determining whether the patient is on insulin or taking oral antidiabetic medication Reviewing the patient's diet history to identify eating habits and lifestyle and cultural eating patterns
Reviewing the patient's diet history to identify eating habits and lifestyle and cultural eating patterns The first step in preparing a meal plan is a thorough review of the patient's diet history to identify eating habits and lifestyle and cultural eating patterns.
A client with diabetes mellitus has a prescription for 5 units of U-100 regular insulin and 25 units of U-100 isophane insulin suspension (NPH) to be taken before breakfast. At about 4:30 p.m., the client experiences headache, sweating, tremor, pallor, and nervousness. What is the most probable cause of these signs and symptoms? Serum glucose level of 450 mg/dl Serum glucose level of 52 mg/dl Serum calcium level of 8.9 mg/dl Serum calcium level of 10.2 mg/dl
Serum glucose level of 52 mg/dl Headache, sweating, tremor, pallor, and nervousness typically result from hypoglycemia, an insulin reaction in which serum glucose level drops below 70 mg/dl. Hypoglycemia may occur 4 to 18 hours after administration of isophane insulin suspension or insulin zinc suspension (Lente), which are intermediate-acting insulins. Although hypoglycemia may occur at any time, it usually precedes meals. Hyperglycemia, in which serum glucose level is above 180 mg/dl, causes such early manifestations as fatigue, malaise, drowsiness, polyuria, and polydipsia. A serum calcium level of 8.9 mg/dl or 10.2 mg/dl is within normal range and wouldn't cause the client's symptoms.
Laboratory studies indicate a client's blood glucose level is 185 mg/dl. Two hours have passed since the client ate breakfast. Which test would yield the most conclusive diagnostic information about the client's glucose use? Fasting blood glucose test 6-hour glucose tolerance test Serum glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb A1c) Urine ketones
Serum glycosylated hemoglobin (Hb A1c) Hb A1c is the most reliable indicator of glucose use because it reflects blood glucose levels for the prior 3 months. Although a fasting blood glucose test and a 6-hour glucose tolerance test yield information about a client's use of glucose, the results are influenced by such factors as whether the client recently ate breakfast. Presence of ketones in the urine also provides information about glucose use but is limited in its diagnostic significance.
A client with a tentative diagnosis of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) has a history of type 2 diabetes that is being controlled with an oral diabetic agent, tolazamide. Which laboratory test is the most important for confirming this disorder? Serum potassium level Serum sodium level Arterial blood gas (ABG) values Serum osmolarity
Serum osmolarity Serum osmolarity is the most important test for confirming HHNS; it's also used to guide treatment strategies and determine evaluation criteria. A client with HHNS typically has a serum osmolarity of more than 350 mOsm/L. Serum potassium, serum sodium, and ABG values are also measured, but they aren't as important as serum osmolarity for confirming a diagnosis of HHNS. A client with HHNS typically has hypernatremia and osmotic diuresis. ABG values reveal acidosis, and the potassium level is variable.
A client with status asthmaticus requires endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Twenty-four hours after intubation, the client is started on the insulin infusion protocol. The nurse must monitor the client's blood glucose levels hourly and watch for which early signs and symptoms associated with hypoglycemia? Sweating, tremors, and tachycardia Dry skin, bradycardia, and somnolence Bradycardia, thirst, and anxiety Polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia
Sweating, tremors, and tachycardia Sweating, tremors, and tachycardia, thirst, and anxiety are early signs of hypoglycemia. Dry skin, bradycardia, and somnolence are signs and symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. Polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia are signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
Insulin is a hormone secreted by the Islets of Langerhans and is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. The nurse understands the physiologic importance of gluconeogenesis, which refers to the: Transport of potassium. Release of glucose. Synthesis of glucose from noncarbohydrate sources. Storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver.
Synthesis of glucose from noncarbohydrate sources. Gluconeogenesis refers to the making of glucose from noncarbohydrates. This occurs mainly in the liver. Its purpose is to maintain the glucose level in the blood to meet the body's demands.
A client with type 2 diabetes asks the nurse why he can't have a pancreatic transplant. Which of the following would the nurse include as a possible reason? Increased risk for urologic complications Need for exocrine enzymatic drainage Underlying problem of insulin resistance Need for lifelong immunosuppressive therapy
Underlying problem of insulin resistance Clients with type 2 diabetes are not offered the option of a pancreas transplant because their problem is insulin resistance, which does not improve with a transplant. Urologic complications or the need for exocrine enzymatic drainage are not reasons for not offering pancreas transplant to clients with type 2 diabetes. Any transplant requires lifelong immunosuppressive drug therapy and is not the factor.
The nurse understands that a client with diabetes mellitus is at greater risk for developing which of the following complications? Low blood pressure Urinary tract infections Lifelong obesity Elevated triglycerides
Urinary tract infections Elevated levels of blood glucose and glycosuria supports bacterial growth and places the diabetic at greater risk for urinary tract, skin, and vaginal infections. Obesity, elevated triglycerides, and high blood pressure are considered symptoms of metabolic syndrome, which can result in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Which intervention is essential when performing dressing changes on a client with a diabetic foot ulcer? Applying a heating pad Debriding the wound three times per day Using sterile technique during the dressing change Cleaning the wound with a povidone-iodine solution
Using sterile technique during the dressing change The nurse should perform the dressing changes using sterile technique to prevent infection. Applying heat should be avoided in a client with diabetes mellitus because of the risk of injury. Cleaning the wound with povidone-iodine solution and debriding the wound with each dressing change prevents the development of granulation tissue, which is essential in the wound healing process.
The nurse is teaching a client about self-administration of insulin and about mixing regular and neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin. Which information is important to include in the teaching plan? If two different types of insulin are ordered, they need to be given in separate injections. When mixing insulin, the NPH insulin is drawn up into the syringe first. When mixing insulin, the regular insulin is drawn up into the syringe first. There is no need to inject air into the bottle of insulin before withdrawing the insulin.
When mixing insulin, the regular insulin is drawn up into the syringe first. When rapid-acting or short-acting insulins are to be given simultaneously with longer-acting insulins, they are usually mixed together in the same syringe; the longer-acting insulins must be mixed thoroughly before being drawn into the syringe. The American Diabetic Association recommends that the regular insulin be drawn up first. The most important issues are that patients (1) are consistent in technique, so the wrong dose is not drawn in error or the wrong type of insulin, and (2) do not inject one type of insulin into the bottle containing a different type of insulin. Injecting cloudy insulin into a vial of clear insulin contaminates the entire vial of clear insulin and alters its action.
A client tells the nurse that she has been working hard for the past 3 months to control her type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise. To determine the effectiveness of the client's efforts, the nurse should check: urine glucose level. fasting blood glucose level. serum fructosamine level. glycosylated hemoglobin level.
glycosylated hemoglobin level. Because some of the glucose in the bloodstream attaches to some of the hemoglobin and stays attached during the 120-day life span of red blood cells, glycosylated hemoglobin levels provide information about blood glucose levels during the previous 3 months. Fasting blood glucose and urine glucose levels give information only about glucose levels at the point in time when they were obtained. Serum fructosamine levels provide information about blood glucose control over the past 2 to 3 weeks.