A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) who normally takes an oral antidiabetic agent asks the nurse why insulin is necessary during this hospitalization for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation and pneumonia. Review of the medication record indicates the client is taking methylprednisolone, clindamycin, and pioglitazone. How should the nurse respond?
"Antibiotics cause significant fluctuations in blood glucose, which are controlled with insulin."
"The infection and the steroid medications you are taking can increase your blood sugar."
"You may need to take insulin when you go home since your oral agent is no longer sufficient."
"The use of insulin is easier to control your blood sugars while you are hospitalized."
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. While antibiotics can influence blood glucose, the primary reason for insulin in this context is the effect of steroids and infection on blood glucose levels.
B. Methylprednisolone, a steroid, can increase blood glucose levels, necessitating the use of insulin to manage elevated glucose levels during illness.
C. The need for insulin is related to the current hospitalization and medication effects, not necessarily a long-term change in diabetes management.
D. The ease of control is less relevant compared to the fact that steroids and infection can significantly impact blood glucose levels, necessitating insulin during hospitalization.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Insulin requirements generally increase as pregnancy progresses due to the growing placenta and hormones that cause insulin resistance, not fluctuate significantly.
B. Insulin requirements typically begin to increase around 18 weeks of gestation and continue to rise until approximately 36 weeks due to increased insulin resistance caused by placental hormones.
C. While insulin needs do increase, they do not typically double or quadruple during the second trimester. The increase is more gradual.
D. Insulin requirements increase during pregnancy and may decrease after delivery as the placenta is no longer present, removing the source of insulin resistance.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Applying antibiotic ointment is not appropriate for this situation as the issue is likely compromised blood flow, not infection.
B. Checking oxygen saturation is not related to the color change of the stoma.
C. Switching to non-latex supplies is important for clients with latex allergies but is not relevant to the immediate problem.
D. A dark red to bluish color of the stoma suggests compromised blood flow and possible ischemia, which requires immediate medical attention. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately to address this potentially serious complication.