Question 1: A client with diabetes is experiencing blurred vision, thirst, and frequent urination. What is the nurse’s priority action?
Rationale: Blurred vision, thirst, and frequent urination are signs of hyperglycemia. Checking blood glucose confirms the diagnosis and guides treatment.
Question 2: A client with type 1 diabetes reports being unable to eat due to nausea. What should the nurse advise the client to do?
Rationale: Checking blood glucose more frequently allows the client to monitor for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia when food intake is reduced.
Question 3: A client with type 2 diabetes is prescribed glipizide. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in client teaching?
Rationale: Avoiding alcohol is critical with glipizide as it can cause a disulfiram-like reaction and potentiate hypoglycemia.
Question 4: A client with diabetes is admitted for surgery. Which intervention is most appropriate to prevent postoperative complications?
Rationale: Sliding scale insulin helps manage fluctuating blood glucose levels during the perioperative period, preventing complications such as hyperglycemia.
Question 5: A client with diabetic neuropathy reports burning and tingling sensations in the feet. What is the nurse’s best response?
Rationale: Medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin can help manage the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and improve quality of life.