ATI Leadership Proctored Exam 2019 Related

Review ATI Leadership Proctored Exam 2019 related questions and content

A patient who was admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis secondary to a urinary tract infection has been weaned off an insulin drip 30 minutes ago. The patient reports feeling lightheaded and sweaty. Which action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Infuse dextrose 50% by slow IV push.
  • B. Administer 1 mg glucagon subcutaneously.
  • C. Obtain a glucose reading using a finger stick.
  • D. Have the patient drink 4 ounces of orange juice.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first when a patient reports feeling lightheaded and sweaty after being weaned off an insulin drip is to obtain a glucose reading using a finger stick. This will provide crucial information on the patient's current blood glucose level, helping the nurse assess if the symptoms are due to hypoglycemia. Based on the glucose reading, appropriate interventions can be initiated, such as administering dextrose, glucagon, or oral sugars like orange juice if hypoglycemia is confirmed. However, verifying the blood glucose level is the initial step to guide subsequent actions and ensure patient safety.