A nurse is caring for a patient with diabetes. The nurse should monitor for which of the following complications?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hyperglycemia. In diabetes, hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels are too high. This can lead to various complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. Monitoring for hyperglycemia is crucial to prevent these serious complications. A: Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar and can also occur in diabetes, but it is not the primary complication to monitor for in this case. B: Hyperkalemia is high potassium levels and is not a common complication of diabetes unless there are other underlying issues. C: Hypotension is low blood pressure, which can be a complication of diabetes but is not as directly related to glucose management as hyperglycemia. In summary, monitoring for hyperglycemia is essential in diabetes care to prevent serious complications associated with high blood sugar levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Swelling in the legs and shortness of breath. In heart failure, fluid can build up in the body causing swelling, particularly in the legs. Shortness of breath is a common symptom due to fluid accumulation in the lungs. Increased urine output and weight loss (A) are not indicative of worsening heart failure as they suggest fluid loss. Decreased blood pressure and dizziness (C) can be seen in other conditions like dehydration. Fatigue and constipation (D) are not specific signs of heart failure worsening.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is option A) "I will inspect my feet daily for cuts or blisters." This statement indicates proper understanding because daily foot inspection is a crucial aspect of foot care for patients with diabetes. Regular monitoring helps in early detection of any cuts, sores, or blisters, which are common but can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Option B) "I will wear tight shoes to avoid blisters" is incorrect because tight shoes can actually increase the risk of blisters and other foot issues. Patients with diabetes should wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes to prevent pressure points and potential injuries. Option C) "I will avoid trimming my toenails to prevent injury" is incorrect because proper toenail care is essential for preventing ingrown toenails and infections. However, patients should be educated on the correct way to trim their toenails to avoid injury. Option D) "I will not worry about foot care unless I experience pain" is incorrect because pain is a late indicator of foot issues in diabetes. Patients should be proactive in their foot care, including daily inspections, regardless of pain. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to provide comprehensive teaching on foot care to patients with diabetes to prevent complications such as diabetic foot ulcers and infections. Emphasizing the importance of daily foot inspections, proper footwear, toenail care, and proactive foot care practices is essential in diabetes management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: I will rotate injection sites to avoid tissue damage. This statement indicates proper understanding because rotating injection sites helps prevent tissue damage and ensures consistent absorption. Injecting into the same spot every time can lead to lipohypertrophy. Injecting insulin only when blood glucose is elevated is incorrect as insulin is needed regularly. Injecting into the arm for faster absorption is also incorrect, as it can lead to unpredictable absorption rates. Rotation of sites is crucial for optimal insulin absorption and to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. Rotating injection sites helps prevent the development of lipodystrophy, a condition characterized by the loss of fat tissue at the injection site. This is important for maintaining consistent insulin absorption and reducing the risk of injection site complications. A: Storing insulin at room temperature is generally recommended, but it is not the most critical action for insulin administration. B: Using insulin immediately after drawing it up is not necessary for all types of insulin and may not be feasible in all situations. C: Injecting insulin into the same spot can lead to tissue damage and inconsistent insulin absorption, so it should be avoided.