Hinkle CH 46 PrepU (Diabetes)

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 12 noon if you take it at 8:00 AM." "You should take your insulin after you eat breakfast and dinner." "Your insulin will last 8 hours, and you will need to take it three times a day."

"You should take your insulin after you eat breakfast and dinner." NPH (Humulin N) insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that has an onset of 2 to 4 hours, a peak effectiveness of 6 to 8 hours, and a duration of 12 to 16 hours. See Table 30-3 in the text.

A client has just been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. When teaching the client and family how diet and exercise affect insulin requirements, the nurse should include which guideline? "You'll need more insulin when you exercise or increase your food intake." "You'll need less insulin when you exercise or reduce your food intake." "You'll need less insulin when you increase your food intake." "You'll need more insulin when you exercise or decrease your food intake."

"You'll need less insulin when you exercise or reduce your food intake." The nurse should advise the client that exercise, reduced food intake, hypothyroidism, and certain medications decrease insulin requirements. Growth, pregnancy, greater food intake, stress, surgery, infection, illness, increased insulin antibodies, and certain medications increase insulin requirements.

A physician orders blood glucose levels every 4 hours for a 4-year-old child with brittle type 1 diabetes. The parents are worried that drawing so much blood will traumatize their child. How can the nurse best reassure the parents? "Your child will need less blood work as his glucose levels stabilize." "Your child is young and will soon forget this experience." "I'll see if the physician can reduce the number of blood draws." "Our laboratory technicians use tiny needles and they're really good with children."

"Your child will need less blood work as his glucose levels stabilize." Telling the parents that the number of blood draws will decrease as their child's glucose levels stabilize engages them in the learning process and gives them hope that the present discomfort will end as the child's condition improves. Telling the parents that their child won't remember the experience disregards their concerns and anxiety. The nurse shouldn't offer to ask the physician if he can reduce the number of blood draws; the physician needs the laboratory results to monitor the child's condition properly. Although telling the parents that the laboratory technicians are gentle and use tiny needles may be reassuring, it isn't the most appropriate response.

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.

A nurse is caring for a diabetic patient with a diagnosis of nephropathy. What would the nurse expect the urinalysis report to indicate? Albumin Bacteria Red blood cells White blood cells

Albumin Nephropathy, or kidney disease secondary to diabetic microvascular changes in the kidney, is a common complication of diabetes. Consistent elevation of blood glucose levels stresses the kidney's filtration mechanism, allowing blood proteins to leak into the urine and thus increasing the pressure in the blood vessels of the kidney. Albumin is one of the most important blood proteins that leak into the urine, and its leakage is among the earliest signs that can be detected. Clinical nephropathy eventually develops in more than 85% of people with microalbuminuria but in fewer than 5% of people without microalbuminuria. The urine should be checked annually for the presence of proteins, which would include microalbumin.

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.

The nurse is caring for a client receiving insulin isophane suspension (NPH) at breakfast. What is an important dietary consideration for the nurse to keep in mind? 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 10 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.

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 client with type 1 diabetes is admitted to an acute care facility with diabetic ketoacidosis. To correct this acute diabetic emergency, which measure should the health care team take first? Initiate fluid replacement therapy. Administer insulin. Correct diabetic ketoacidosis. Determine the cause of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Initiate fluid replacement therapy. The health care team first initiates fluid replacement therapy to prevent or treat circulatory collapse caused by severe dehydration. Although diabetic ketoacidosis results from insulin deficiency, the client must have an adequate fluid volume before insulin can be administered; otherwise, the drug won't circulate throughout the body effectively. Therefore, insulin administration follows fluid replacement therapy. Determining and correcting the cause of diabetic ketoacidosis are important steps, but the client's condition must first be stabilized to prevent life-threatening complications.

The nurse is preparing a presentation for a group of adults at a local community center about diabetes. Which characteristic would the nurse inform the group is associated with type 2 diabetes? Onset most common during adolescence Insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production Less common than type 1 diabetes Little relation to prediabetes

Insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. It is more common in aging adults, and adults aged 45 to 64 years were highest among newly diagnosed age groups for type 2 diabetes in 2018, not adolescents. The absence of insulin production by beta cells in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas is characteristic of type 1 diabetes mellitus, not type 2. Prediabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes.

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.

The nurse suspects that a patient with diabetes has developed proliferative retinopathy. The nurse confirms this by the presence of which of the following diagnostic signs? Decreased capillary permeability Microaneurysm formation Neovascularization into the vitreous humor The leakage of capillary wall fragments into surrounding areas

Neovascularization into the vitreous humor Proliferative retinopathy, an ocular complication of diabetes, occurs because of the abnormal growth of new blood vessels on the retina that bleed into the vitreous and block light. Blood vessels in the vitreous form scar tissue that can pull and detach the retina. Neovascularization into the vitreous humor is considered a diagnostic sign.

An older adult patient that has type 2 diabetes comes to the emergency department with second-degree burns to the bottom of both feet and states, "I didn't feel too hot but my feet must have been too close to the heater." What does the nurse understand is most likely the reason for the decrease in temperature sensation? A faulty heater Autonomic neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy Sudomotor neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy As the neuropathy progresses, the feet become numb. In addition, a decrease in proprioception (awareness of posture and movement of the body and of position and weight of objects in relation to the body) and a decreased sensation of light touch may lead to an unsteady gait. Decreased sensations of pain and temperature place patients with neuropathy at increased risk for injury and undetected foot infections.

Lispro (Humalog) is an example of which type of insulin? Rapid-acting Intermediate-acting Short-acting Long-acting

Rapid-acting Humalog is a rapid-acting insulin. NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin. A short-acting insulin is Humulin-R. An example of a long-acting insulin is Glargine (Lantus).

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.

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.

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 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.

Which of the following medications is considered a glitazone? pioglitazone metformin metformin with glyburide dapagliflozin

pioglitazone Pioglitazone and rosiglitazone are classified as a glitazone or thiazolidinedione. Metformin and metformin with glyburide are classified as biguanides. Dapagliflozin is classified as a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGL-2) inhibitor.

The nurse is administering lispro insulin. Based on the onset of action, how long before breakfast should the nurse administer the injection? 10 to 15 minutes 30 to 40 minutes 1 to 2 hours 3 hours

10 to 15 minutes The onset of action of rapid-acting lispro insulin is within 10 to 15 minutes. It is used to rapidly reduce the glucose level.

A nurse knows to assess a patient with type 1 diabetes for postprandial hyperglycemia. The nurse knows that glycosuria is present when the serum glucose level exceeds: 120 mg/dL 140 mg/dL 160 mg/dL 180 mg/dL

180 mg/dL Glycosuria occurs when the renal threshold for sugar exceeds 180 mg/dL. Glycosuria leads to an excessive loss of water and electrolytes (osmotic diuresis).

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 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.

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.

Which of the following is an age-related change that may affect diabetes? Select all that apply. Decreased renal function Taste changes Decreased vision Increased bowel motility Increased proprioception

Decreased renal function Taste changes Decreased vision Age-related changes include decreased renal function, taste changes, decreased vision, decreased bowel motility, and decreased proprioception.

A nurse is preparing a client with type 1 diabetes for discharge. The client can care for himself; however, he's had a problem with unstable blood glucose levels in the past. Based on the client's history, he should be referred to which health care worker? Home health nurse Dietitian Psychiatrist Social worker

Dietitian The client should be referred to a dietitian, who will help him gain better control of his blood glucose levels. The client can care for himself, so a home health agency isn't necessary. The client shows no signs of needing a psychiatric referral, and referring the client to a psychiatrist isn't in the nurse's scope of practice. Social workers help clients with financial concerns; the scenario doesn't indicate that the client has a financial concern warranting a social worker at this time.

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. Because glargine is in a suspension with a pH of 4, it cannot be mixed with other insulins because this would cause precipitation. Glargine is a "peakless" basal insulin that is absorbed very slowly over a 24-hour period and can be given once a day. When administering glargine insulin it is very important to read the label carefully and to avoid mistaking Lantus insulin for Lente insulin and vice versa.

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 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.

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.

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.

NPH is an example of which type of insulin? Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting

Intermediate-acting NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin.

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

Ketosis-prone Little or no endogenous insulin Younger than 30 years of age Type I diabetes mellitus is associated with the following characteristics: onset any age, but usually young (<30 y); usually thin at diagnosis, recent weight loss; etiology includes genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors (e.g., virus); often have islet cell antibodies; often have antibodies to insulin even before insulin treatment; little or no endogenous insulin; need exogenous insulin to preserve life; and ketosis prone when insulin absent.

A group of students are reviewing the various types of drugs that are used to treat diabetes mellitus. The students demonstrate understanding of the material when they identify which of the following as an example of an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor? Metformin Glyburide Miglitol Rosiglitazone

Miglitol Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors include drugs such as miglitol and acarbose. Metformin is a biguanide. Glyburide is a sulfonylurea. Rosiglitazone is a thiazolidinedione.

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.

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 explaining glycosylated hemoglobin testing to a diabetic client. Which of the following provides the best reason for this order? Provides best information on the body's ability to maintain normal blood functioning Best indicator for the nutritional state of the client Is less costly than performing daily blood sugar test Reflects the amount of glucose stored in hemoglobin over past several months.

Reflects the amount of glucose stored in hemoglobin over past several months. Hemoglobin A1c tests reflect the amount of glucose that is stored in the hemoglobin molecule during its life span of 120 days. This test provides a more accurate picture of overall glucose control in a client. Glycosylated hemoglobin test does not indicate normal blood functioning or nutritional state of the client. Self-monitoring with a glucometer is still encouraged in clients who are taking insulin or have unstable blood glucose levels.

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.

Which category of oral antidiabetic agents exerts the primary action by directly stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin? Thiazolidinediones Biguanides Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors Sulfonylureas

Sulfonylureas A functioning pancreas is necessary for sulfonylureas to be effective. Thiazolidinediones enhance insulin action at the receptor site without increasing insulin secretion from the beta cells of the pancreas. Biguanides facilitate the action of insulin on peripheral receptor sites. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors delay the absorption of glucose in the intestinal system, resulting in a lower postprandial blood glucose level.

A client is diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. The client reports visiting the gym regularly and is a vegetarian. Which of the following factors is important to consider when the nurse assesses the client? The client's consumption of carbohydrates History of radiographic contrast studies that used iodine The client's mental and emotional status The client's exercise routine

The client's consumption of carbohydrates While assessing a client, it is important to ask about consumption of carbohydrates due to the client's high blood sugar. Although other factors such as the client's mental and emotional status, history of tests involving iodine, and exercise routine can be part of data collection, they are not the priority when assessing a client with high blood sugar.

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 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.

Which instruction about insulin administration should a nurse give to a client? "Always follow the same order when drawing the different insulins into the syringe." "Shake the vials before withdrawing the insulin." "Store unopened vials of insulin in the freezer at temperatures well below freezing." "Discard the intermediate-acting insulin if it appears cloudy."

"Always follow the same order when drawing the different insulins into the syringe." The nurse should instruct the client to always follow the same order when drawing the different insulins into the syringe. Insulin should never be shaken because the resulting froth prevents withdrawal of an accurate dose and may damage the insulin protein molecules. Insulin should never be frozen because the insulin protein molecules may be damaged. The client doesn't need to discard intermediate-acting insulin if it's cloudy; this finding is normal.

A nurse is preparing the daily care plan for a client with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus. The priority nursing concern for this client should be: monitoring blood glucose every 4 hours and as needed. checking for the presence of ketones with each void. providing client education at every opportunity. administering insulin routinely and as needed via a sliding scale.

providing client education at every opportunity. The nurse should use routine care responsibilities as teaching opportunities with the intention of preparing the client to understand and eventually manage his disease. Monitoring blood glucose, checking for the presence of ketones, and administering insulin are important when caring for a client with diabetes, but they aren't the priority of care.

During a routine medical evaluation, a client is found to have a random blood glucose level of 210 mg/dL. Which client statement(s) made by the client are concerning to the nurse? Select all that apply. "At times my vision is blurry." "I have to void nearly every hour." "I cannot seem to quench my thirst." "I sleep at least 8 hours each night." "I have lost 10 pounds without even trying."

"At times my vision is blurry." "I have to void nearly every hour." "I cannot seem to quench my thirst." "I have lost 10 pounds without even trying." Criteria for the diagnosis of diabetes include symptoms of diabetes plus a random or casual plasma glucose concentration equal to or greater than 200 mg/dL. Symptoms of diabetes include vision changes, polyuria (or the increased need to urinate), polydipsia (or increased thirst), and sudden weight loss.

A client with type 2 diabetes has recently been prescribed acarbose, and the nurse is explaining how to take this medication. The teaching is determined to be effective based on which statement by the client? "I will take this medication in the morning, 15 minutes before breakfast." "I will take this medication in the morning, with my first bite of breakfast." "This medication needs to be taken after the midday meal." "It does not matter what time of day I take this medication."

"I will take this medication in the morning, with my first bite of breakfast." Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors such as acarbose and miglitol, delay absorption of complex carbohydrates in the intestine and slow entry of glucose into systemic circulation. They must be taken with the first bite of food to be effective.

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.

A client newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus asks why he needs ketone testing when the disease affects his blood glucose levels. How should the nurse respond? "The spleen releases ketones when your body can't use glucose." "Ketones will tell us if your body is using other tissues for energy." "Ketones can damage your kidneys and eyes." "Ketones help the physician determine how serious your diabetes is."

"Ketones will tell us if your body is using other tissues for energy." The nurse should tell the client that ketones are a byproduct of fat metabolism and that ketone testing can determine whether the body is breaking down fat to use for energy. The spleen doesn't release ketones when the body can't use glucose. Although ketones can damage the eyes and kidneys and help the physician evaluate the severity of a client's diabetes, these responses by the nurse are incomplete.

A client with diabetes mellitus must learn how to self-administer insulin. The physician has ordered 10 units of U-100 regular insulin and 35 units of U-100 isophane insulin suspension (NPH) to be taken before breakfast. When teaching the client how to select and rotate insulin injection sites, the nurse should provide which instruction? "Inject insulin into healthy tissue with large blood vessels and nerves." "Rotate injection sites within the same anatomic region, not among different regions." "Administer insulin into areas of scar tissue or hypertrophy whenever possible." "Administer insulin into sites above muscles that you plan to exercise heavily later that day."

"Rotate injection sites within the same anatomic region, not among different regions." The nurse should instruct the client to rotate injection sites within the same anatomic region. Rotating sites among different regions may cause excessive day-to-day variations in the blood glucose level; also, insulin absorption differs from one region to the next. Insulin should be injected only into healthy tissue lacking large blood vessels, nerves, or scar tissue or other deviations. Injecting insulin into areas of hypertrophy may delay absorption. The client shouldn't inject insulin into areas of lipodystrophy (such as hypertrophy or atrophy); to prevent lipodystrophy, the client should rotate injection sites systematically. Exercise speeds drug absorption, so the client shouldn't inject insulin into sites above muscles that will be exercised heavily.

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 client with diabetes mellitus has a blood glucose level of 40 mg/dL. Which rapidly absorbed carbohydrate would be most effective? 1/2 cup fruit juice or regular soft drink 4 oz of skim milk 1/2 tbsp honey or syrup three to five LifeSavers candies

1/2 cup fruit juice or regular soft drink In a client with hypoglycemia, the nurse uses the rule of 15: give 15 g of rapidly absorbed carbohydrate, wait 15 minutes, recheck the blood sugar, and administer another 15 g of glucose if the blood sugar is not above 70 mg/dL. One-half cup fruit juice or regular soft drink is equivalent to the recommended 15 g of rapidly absorbed carbohydrate. Eight ounces of skim milk is equivalent to the recommended 15 g of rapidly absorbed carbohydrate. One tablespoon of honey or syrup is equivalent to the recommended 15 g of rapidly absorbed carbohydrate. Six to eight LifeSavers candies is equivalent to the recommended 15 g of rapidly absorbed carbohydrate.

An agitated, confused client arrives in the emergency department. The client's history includes type 1 diabetes, hypertension, and angina pectoris. Assessment reveals pallor, diaphoresis, headache, and intense hunger. A stat blood glucose sample measures 42 mg/dl, and the client is treated for an acute hypoglycemic reaction. After recovery, the nurse teaches the client to treat hypoglycemia by ingesting: 2 to 5 g of a simple carbohydrate. 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate. 18 to 20 g of a simple carbohydrate. 25 to 30 g of a simple carbohydrate.

10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate. To reverse hypoglycemia, the American Diabetes Association recommends ingesting 10 to 15 g of a simple carbohydrate, such as three to five pieces of hard candy, two to three packets of sugar (4 to 6 tsp), or 4 oz of fruit juice. Then the client should check his blood glucose after 15 minutes. If necessary, this treatment may be repeated in 15 minutes. Ingesting only 2 to 5 g of a simple carbohydrate may not raise the blood glucose level sufficiently. Ingesting more than 15 g may raise it above normal, causing hyperglycemia.

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 female patient with diabetes who weighs 150 pounds has an ideal body weight of 118 pounds. She can lose 1 pound per week and drop her extra 32 pounds in approximately 8 months. To meet this goal, the nurse advises the patient to decrease her calories by: 2,000 per week. 2,500 per week. 3,000 per week. 3,500 per week.

3,500 per week. A person needs to decrease caloric intake by 3,500 for each lb of weight that is lost. To lose 1 lb per week, a person would decrease his or her daily caloric intake by 500 calories (500 calories × 7 days = 3,500 calories = 1 lb).

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 with type 1 diabetes is scheduled to receive 30 units of 70/30 insulin. There is no 70/30 insulin available. As a substitution, the nurse may give the client: 9 units regular insulin and 21 units neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH). 21 units regular insulin and 9 units NPH. 10 units regular insulin and 20 units NPH. 20 units regular insulin and 10 units NPH.

9 units regular insulin and 21 units neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH). A 70/30 insulin preparation is 70% NPH and 30% regular insulin. Therefore, a correct substitution requires mixing 21 units of NPH and 9 units of regular insulin. The other choices are incorrect dosages for the ordered insulin.

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.

A client with diabetic ketoacidosis has been brought into the ED. Which intervention is not a goal in the initial medical treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis? Administer glucose. Monitor serum electrolytes and blood glucose levels. Administer isotonic fluid at a high volume. Administer potassium replacements.

Administer glucose. Insulin is given intravenously. Insulin reduces the production of ketones by making glucose available for oxidation by the tissues and by restoring the liver's supply of glycogen. As insulin begins to lower the blood glucose level, the IV solution is changed to include one with glucose. Periodic monitoring of serum electrolytes and blood glucose levels is necessary. Isotonic fluid is instilled at a high volume, for example, 250 to 500 mL/hour for several hours. The rate is adjusted once the client becomes rehydrated and diuresis is less acute. Potassium replacements are given despite elevated serum levels to raise intracellular stores.

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.

A client with long-standing type 1 diabetes is admitted to the hospital with unstable angina pectoris. After the client's condition stabilizes, the nurse evaluates the diabetes management regimen. The nurse learns that the client sees the physician every 4 weeks, injects insulin after breakfast and dinner, and measures blood glucose before breakfast and at bedtime. Consequently, the nurse should formulate a nursing diagnosis of: Impaired adjustment. Defensive coping. Deficient knowledge (treatment regimen). Health-seeking behaviors (diabetes control).

Deficient knowledge (treatment regimen). The client should inject insulin before, not after, breakfast and dinner — 30 minutes before breakfast for the a.m. dose and 30 minutes before dinner for the p.m. dose. Therefore, the client has a knowledge deficit regarding when to administer insulin. By taking insulin, measuring blood glucose levels, and seeing the physician regularly, the client has demonstrated the ability and willingness to modify his lifestyle as needed to manage the disease. This behavior eliminates the nursing diagnoses of Impaired adjustment and Defensive coping. Because the nurse, not the client, questioned the client's health practices related to diabetes management, the nursing diagnosis of Health-seeking behaviors isn't warranted.

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 nurse educator been invited to local seniors center to discuss health-maintaining strategies for older adults. The nurse addresses the subject of diabetes mellitus, its symptoms, and consequences. What should the educator teach the participants about type 1 diabetes? The participants are unlikely to develop a new onset of type 1 diabetes. New cases of diabetes are highly uncommon in older adults. New cases of diabetes will be split roughly evenly between type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes always develops before the age of 20.

The participants are unlikely to develop a new onset of type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes usually (but not always) develops in people younger than 20. In older adults, an onset of type 2 is far more common. A significant number of older adults develops type 2 diabetes.

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.

During a class on exercise for clients with diabetes mellitus, a client asks the nurse educator how often to exercise. To meet the goals of planned exercise, the nurse educator should advise the client to exercise: at least once per week. at least three times per week. at least five times per week. every day.

at least three times per week. Clients with diabetes must exercise at least three times per week to meet the goals of planned exercise — lowering the blood glucose level, reducing or maintaining the proper weight, increasing the serum high-density lipoprotein level, decreasing serum triglyceride levels, reducing blood pressure, and minimizing stress. Exercising once per week wouldn't achieve these goals. Exercising more than three times per week, although beneficial, would exceed the minimum requirement.

A nurse is teaching a client recovering from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) about management of "sick days." The client asks the nurse why it is important to monitor the urine for ketones. Which statement is the nurse's best response? "Ketones are formed when insufficient insulin leads to cellular starvation. As cells rupture, they release these acids into the blood." "When the body does not have enough insulin, hyperglycemia occurs. Excess glucose is broken down by the liver, causing acidic by-products to be released." "Excess glucose in the blood is metabolized by the liver and turned into ketones, which are an acid." "Ketones accumulate in the blood and urine when fat breaks down in the absence of insulin. Ketones signal an insulin deficiency that will cause the body to start breaking down stored fat for energy."

"Ketones accumulate in the blood and urine when fat breaks down in the absence of insulin. Ketones signal an insulin deficiency that will cause the body to start breaking down stored fat for energy." Ketones (or ketone bodies) are by-products of fat breakdown in the absence of insulin, and they accumulate in the blood and urine. Ketones in the urine signal an insulin deficiency and that control of type 1 diabetes is deteriorating. When almost no effective insulin is available, the body starts to break down stored fat for energy.

A child is brought into the emergency department with vomiting, drowsiness, and blowing respirations. The child's parent reports that the symptoms have been progressing throughout the day. The nurse suspects diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which action should the nurse take first in the management of DKA? Give prescribed antiemetics. Begin fluid replacements. Administer prescribed dose of insulin. Administer bicarbonate to correct acidosis.

Begin fluid replacements. Management of DKA is aimed at correcting dehydration, electrolyte loss, and acidosis before correcting the hyperglycemia with insulin.

Which of the following insulins are used for basal dosage? Glargine (Lantus) NPH (Humulin N) Lispro (Humalog) Aspart (Novolog)

Glargine (Lantus) Lantus is used for basal dosage. NPH is an intermediate acting insulin, usually taken after food. Humalog and Novolog are rapid-acting insulins.

The nurse is educating the patient with diabetes about the importance of increasing dietary fiber. What should the nurse explain is the rationale for the increase? Select all that apply. May improve blood glucose levels Decrease the need for exogenous insulin Help reduce cholesterol levels May reduce postprandial glucose levels Increase potassium levels

Help reduce cholesterol levels May improve blood glucose levels Decrease the need for exogenous insulin Increased fiber in the diet may improve blood glucose levels, decrease the need for exogenous insulin, and lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels in the blood (ADA, 2008b; Geil, 2008).

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).

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 nurse is assessing a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which finding suggests that the client has developed hyperglycemia? Cheyne-Stokes respirations Increased urine output Decreased appetite Diaphoresis

Increased urine output Glucose supplies most of the calories in TPN; if the glucose infusion rate exceeds the client's rate of glucose metabolism, hyperglycemia arises. When the renal threshold for glucose reabsorption is exceeded, osmotic diuresis occurs, causing an increased urine output. A decreased appetite and diaphoresis suggest hypoglycemia, not hyperglycemia. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a period of apnea lasting 10 to 60 seconds, followed by gradually increasing depth and frequency of respirations. Cheyne-Stokes respirations typically occur with cerebral depression or heart failure.

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.

A nurse explains to a client that she will administer his first insulin dose in his abdomen. How does absorption at the abdominal site compare with absorption at other sites? Insulin is absorbed more slowly at abdominal injection sites than at other sites. Insulin is absorbed rapidly regardless of the injection site. Insulin is absorbed more rapidly at abdominal injection sites than at other sites. Insulin is absorbed unpredictably at all injection sites.

Insulin is absorbed more rapidly at abdominal injection sites than at other sites. Subcutaneous insulin is absorbed most rapidly at abdominal injection sites, more slowly at sites on the arms, and slowest at sites on the anterior thigh. Absorption after injection in the buttocks is less predictable.

Which type of insulin acts most quickly? Regular NPH Lispro Glargine

Lispro The onset of action of rapid-acting lispro is within 10 to 15 minutes. The onset of action of short-acting regular insulin is 30 minutes to 1 hour. The onset of action of intermediate-acting NPH insulin is 3 to 4 hours. The onset of action of very long-acting glargine is ~6 hours.

A nurse is teaching a diabetic support group about the causes of type 1 diabetes. The teaching is determined to be effective when the group is able to attribute which factor as a cause of type 1 diabetes? Presence of autoantibodies against islet cells Obesity Rare ketosis Altered glucose metabolism

Presence of autoantibodies against islet cells There is evidence of an autoimmune response in type 1 diabetes. This is an abnormal response in which antibodies are directed against normal tissues of the body, responding to these tissues as if they were foreign. Autoantibodies against islet cells and against endogenous (internal) insulin have been detected in people at the time of diagnosis and even several years before the development of clinical signs of type 1 diabetes.

After being sick for 3 days, a client with a history of diabetes mellitus is admitted to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The nurse should evaluate which diagnostic test results to prevent dysrhythmias? Serum potassium level Serum calcium level Serum sodium level Serum chloride level

Serum potassium level The nurse should monitor the client's potassium level because during periods of acidosis, potassium leaves the cell, causing hyperkalemia. As blood glucose levels normalize with treatment, potassium reenters the cell, causing hypokalemia if levels aren't monitored closely. Hypokalemia places the client at risk for cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia. DKA has a lesser affect on serum calcium, sodium, and chloride levels. Changes in these levels don't typically cause cardiac arrhythmias.

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 nurse is assigned to care for a postoperative client with diabetes mellitus. During the assessment interview, the client reports that he's impotent and says he's concerned about the effect on his marriage. In planning this client's care, the most appropriate intervention would be to: encourage the client to ask questions about personal sexuality. provide time for privacy. provide support for the spouse or significant other. suggest referral to a sex counselor or other appropriate professional.

suggest referral to a sex counselor or other appropriate professional. The nurse should refer this client to a sex counselor or other professional. Making appropriate referrals is a valid part of planning the client's care. The nurse doesn't normally provide sex counseling.