Question 1: A client with type 1 diabetes reports frequent episodes of hypoglycemia. What is the nurse’s priority action?
Rationale: Understanding the client’s meal and activity patterns helps identify potential causes of hypoglycemia, such as mismatched insulin doses or skipped meals.
Question 2: A client with type 2 diabetes is starting exenatide therapy. What is the nurse’s priority teaching point?
Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect of exenatide, particularly when therapy begins, and clients should be prepared for this possibility.
Question 3: A client with diabetes is admitted with confusion and fruity-smelling breath. What is the nurse’s priority intervention?
Rationale: Starting an IV of normal saline is the priority to treat dehydration caused by diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), indicated by confusion and fruity-smelling breath.
Question 4: A nurse is teaching a client with diabetes about traveling with insulin. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
Rationale: Insulin should never be packed in checked luggage because extreme temperatures in cargo holds can affect its potency.
Question 5: A nurse is assessing a client with diabetes for signs of complications. Which finding is most concerning?
Rationale: Protein in the urine indicates diabetic nephropathy, a serious complication requiring immediate attention to prevent kidney damage.
