Question

A patient with type 2 diabetes has been managing his blood glucose levels using diet and metformin (Glucophage). Following an ordered increase in the patient's daily dose of metformin, the nurse should prioritize which of the following assessments?

A) Monitoring the patient's neutrophil levels
B) Assessing the patient for signs of impaired liver function
C) Monitoring the patient's level of consciousness and behavior
D) Reviewing the patient's creatinine and BUN levels

Answer 1

When a patient with type 2 diabetes has their metformin dose increased, nurses should prioritize monitoring liver function and kidney function with creatinine and BUN levels to mitigate the risk of lactic acidosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following an ordered increase in the patient's daily dose of metformin, the nurse should prioritize assessing the patient for signs of impaired liver function and reviewing the patient's creatinine and BUN (blood urea nitrogen) levels. Metformin can potentially cause a rare but serious condition known as lactic acidosis, which is more likely to occur if the patient has kidney or liver problems. Therefore, monitoring liver function and kidney function (as indicated by creatinine and BUN levels) is crucial in patients taking metformin, especially when the dosage of the medication has been increased.