HESI 799 RN Exit Exam Capstone Related

Review HESI 799 RN Exit Exam Capstone related questions and content

A client with diabetes mellitus reports feeling shaky, dizzy, and sweaty. The nurse checks the client's blood glucose level and it is 55 mg/dL. What is the nurse's next action?

  • A. Give the client a glucagon injection
  • B. Encourage the client to eat a high-protein snack
  • C. Administer 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate
  • D. Recheck the blood glucose level in 15 minutes
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL indicates hypoglycemia, which should be treated with a fast-acting carbohydrate to quickly raise the blood sugar. Administering 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets or juice, is the appropriate initial intervention for hypoglycemia. Giving a glucagon injection is reserved for severe cases or when the client is unconscious. Encouraging the client to eat a high-protein snack is not appropriate for treating acute hypoglycemia, as it is a slower-acting form of glucose. Rechecking the blood glucose level is important but should occur after providing immediate treatment to raise the blood sugar level.