Endocrine Question #31

Question

A client with type 1 diabetes mellitus received an early AM dose of regular insulin per sliding scale. The client ate 20% of breakfast. The nurse returns at 1000 to assess the client. Which sign will the nurse observe for hypoglycemia?

Answers

1. Rash
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2. Shakiness
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3. Polyuria
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4. Fruity acetone odor to breath
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Overview

Explanation

Shakiness is a sign of hypoglycemia. Regular insulin has an onset of 0.5 hr to 1 hour and peak of 2 to 4 hours. The client did not eat much breakfast and runs the risk of low blood sugar. The nurse should assess the client 2 hours after insulin administration for signs of hypoglycemia. Rash, polyuria, and fruity odor to the breath are not signs of hypoglycemia. Polyuria is a sign of hyperglycemia and fruity breath a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. Rash is not a sign of hypoglycemia.

Learning Outcomes

Test Taking Tip

Video Rationale