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 C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Applying pressure proximal to the IV site is not appropriate and could cause further complications.
B. Assessing the radial pulse is important but is not the immediate response to the occlusion alarm.
C. Straightening the arm can help relieve a positional occlusion, which is a common cause of such alarms.
D. Elevating the arm may help with venous return but is not a first-line action for addressing the occlusion alarm.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Renal creatinine clearance is important in assessing kidney function but is not directly related to divalproex sodium therapy.
B. While CBC monitoring is essential, especially for detecting thrombocytopenia, liver function tests are more critical in this context.
C. A chemistry panel is valuable but does not specifically monitor for the primary risks associated with divalproex sodium.
D. Divalproex sodium (valproate) can cause hepatotoxicity, so monitoring liver function tests (LFTs) is crucial. Regular LFTs help detect early signs of liver damage, which can be a serious adverse effect of this medication.