227k views
1 vote
A nurse is caring for a child who is receiving treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis and has current blood glucose level of 250mg/dL. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? A. Administer insulin as prescribed.

B. Increase the child's dietary intake.
C. Administer a high dose of glucose.
D. Monitor the blood glucose levels without intervention.

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

In treating a child with diabetic ketoacidosis and a blood glucose level of 250mg/dL, a nurse should administer insulin as prescribed to lower the blood glucose and reverse ketosis. Administering insulin is in accordance with the standard diabetes management protocols to control blood sugar levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

Regarding the treatment of a child with diabetic ketoacidosis and a current blood glucose level of 250mg/dL, the appropriate nursing action would be to administer insulin as prescribed. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels, and its primary function is to lower blood glucose by facilitating glucose uptake into cells and converting excess glucose into glycogen. In the case of diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious condition that occurs when the body produces high levels of blood acids known as ketones, insulin therapy is critical to reverse the ketosis and bring blood glucose levels back to a safer range.

Option A is correct because it is in line with diabetes management protocols which involve insulin injections to decrease blood glucose levels, particularly after a large or high-glucose meal. Option B, increasing the child's dietary intake, and Option C, administering a high dose of glucose, could likely worsen the situation by raising blood glucose even higher. Option D, monitoring the blood glucose levels without intervention, is not recommended as this could delay the necessary treatment and increase the risk of complications.

Overall, the management of diabetic ketoacidosis involves careful monitoring of blood glucose and ketone levels, fluid and electrolyte replacement, and insulin administration to correct the underlying metabolic abnormalities. It's vital to act promptly and follow the medical treatment plan to avoid further complications.

User Myto
by
7.3k points