A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis secondary to an infection. Which of the following prescriptions is the highest priority?
Obtain blood for culture and sensitivity.
Initiate IV infusion of regular insulin.
Initiate 0.9% sodium chloride 1,000 mL IV at 500 mL/hr.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Obtain blood for culture and sensitivity: While identifying the infection is important for treatment, it does not address the immediate metabolic crisis of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This action is essential but secondary to stabilizing the client's current condition.
B) Initiate IV infusion of regular insulin: Administering insulin is critical in the management of DKA, as it helps to reduce blood glucose levels and halt the production of ketones, which are responsible for the acidosis. This intervention is vital for quickly correcting the metabolic derangement and stabilizing the patient.
C) Initiate 0.9% sodium chloride 1,000 mL IV at 500 mL/hr: While fluid replacement is important in the management of DKA to address dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, it is still not as immediately life-saving as starting insulin therapy. Fluid resuscitation typically follows the administration of insulin.
D) Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: This may be necessary for monitoring urine output and assessing kidney function, but it is not a priority intervention when addressing the acute complications of DKA. Insulin administration takes precedence in the immediate management plan.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Check the pulse distal to the graft: This action is crucial for assessing the patency of the arteriovenous graft. Monitoring the pulse distal to the graft ensures adequate blood flow and helps detect any complications such as thrombosis or compromised circulation.
B) Keep the left forearm below the level of the heart: Keeping the forearm below heart level is not necessary and could potentially compromise circulation. The limb should be elevated as tolerated to reduce swelling and promote healing.
C) Collect blood specimens from the graft: Collecting blood specimens from the graft site is not appropriate, as it can increase the risk of infection and damage to the graft. Blood samples should typically be drawn from another site.
D) Splint the left forearm to prevent damage to the graft: While protecting the graft site is important, splinting is generally not required unless specifically ordered for a particular reason. The focus should be on gentle use and monitoring rather than immobilization.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "Floss your teeth gently following each meal.": This instruction is appropriate for a client with mucositis. Gentle flossing can help maintain oral hygiene and reduce the risk of infection without causing additional trauma to the already sensitive mucous membranes. It's important to emphasize a gentle approach to minimize discomfort.
B) "Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide.": Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide is not recommended for clients with mucositis, as it can be irritating to the mucous membranes and exacerbate discomfort. Alternatives such as saline or baking soda rinses are typically suggested instead.
C) "Wear your dentures only during meals.": While this may seem practical, clients with mucositis are often advised to avoid dentures altogether if possible, as they can irritate the mucosa. Instead, they should be encouraged to keep their mouth clean and free of irritants.
D) "Brush your teeth for 60 seconds twice daily.": Although maintaining oral hygiene is important, brushing for only 60 seconds may not be sufficient to ensure proper cleaning, especially in the presence of mucositis. It may also be painful, leading to avoidance. A gentler and more thorough approach is often advised, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.