Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is monitoring a client newly diagnosed with DM for signs of complications. Which sign or symptom, if exhibited in the client, indicates that the client is at risk for chronic complications of diabetes if blood glucose levels are not adequately managed?

• A. Polyuria
• B. Diaphoresis
• C. Pedal edema
• D. Proteinuria

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Proteinuria is the correct answer because it indicates kidney damage, which is a common complication of uncontrolled diabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels over time can damage the kidneys, leading to proteinuria. Polyuria (excessive urination) is a symptom of diabetes but does not specifically indicate a risk for chronic complications. Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) and pedal edema (swelling of the lower limbs) are not direct indicators of chronic complications related to uncontrolled diabetes.

2. A client with type 1 DM is experiencing signs of hypoglycemia. The nurse should expect which of the following symptoms?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Polyuria
• C. Flushed skin
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client experiencing hypoglycemia, tachycardia is a common symptom. This occurs due to the release of adrenaline in response to low blood glucose levels, which stimulates the heart to beat faster. Polyuria, the increased production of urine, flushed skin, and dry mouth are not typical symptoms of hypoglycemia. Polyuria is more commonly associated with conditions like diabetes insipidus or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Flushed skin and dry mouth are not direct physiological responses to low blood sugar levels.

3. A client with diabetes mellitus is scheduled for surgery. The nurse should prioritize which of the following preoperative actions?

• A. Administer a full dose of insulin before surgery
• B. Hold all oral hypoglycemic agents the day before surgery
• C. Monitor blood glucose levels closely before surgery
• D. Instruct the client to avoid all fluids the morning of surgery

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring blood glucose levels closely before surgery is the priority for a client with diabetes mellitus. This allows for early detection of any abnormalities and helps prevent hypo- or hyperglycemia complications that can arise during the perioperative period. Option A is incorrect because insulin dosing should be individualized based on the client's current blood glucose levels and the surgical plan. Option B is incorrect as abruptly holding oral hypoglycemic agents can lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels. Option D is incorrect as adequate fluid intake is important for the client's hydration status and overall well-being before surgery.

4. A client with DM is being taught about the importance of foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Use a heating pad to warm your feet.
• B. Avoid walking barefoot.
• C. Soak your feet in hot water every night.
• D. Wear tight shoes to protect your feet.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include is to advise the client to avoid walking barefoot. This recommendation is crucial for clients with diabetes to prevent foot injuries and infections. Walking barefoot can lead to unnoticed wounds or ulcers due to reduced sensation in the feet (neuropathy) common in diabetes. Choice A is incorrect as heating pads can cause burns and should be avoided. Choice C is incorrect because soaking feet in hot water can also lead to burns and skin damage. Choice D is incorrect as tight shoes can increase the risk of pressure sores and restrict blood flow, which is detrimental for individuals with diabetes.

5. The nurse is caring for a client with diabetes insipidus. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse monitor?

• A. Serum sodium
• B. Serum potassium
• C. Serum calcium
• D. Serum magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In diabetes insipidus, there is excessive excretion of water leading to dehydration. Monitoring serum sodium levels is crucial because these clients often experience hypernatremia (elevated serum sodium levels) due to the loss of relatively more water than sodium, resulting in a sodium concentration imbalance. While monitoring serum potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels is also important in various conditions, they are not the primary focus in diabetes insipidus.

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