HESI CAT Exam 2022 Related

Review HESI CAT Exam 2022 related questions and content

A nurse working on an endocrine unit should see which client first?

  • A. An adolescent male with diabetes who is arguing about his insulin dose.
  • B. An older client with Addison's disease whose current blood sugar level is 62mg/dl (3.44 mmol/l).
  • C. An adult with a blood sugar of 384mg/dl (21.31mmol/l) and urine output of 350 ml in the last hour.
  • D. A client taking corticosteroids who has become disoriented in the last two hours.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The client with Addison's disease and a blood sugar level of 62mg/dl (3.44 mmol/l) is experiencing hypoglycemia, which can progress to adrenal crisis. This situation requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. Choices A, C, and D, although concerning, do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to the client with Addison's disease and hypoglycemia. The adolescent arguing about his insulin dose can be addressed after stabilizing the client with Addison's disease. The adult with high blood sugar and increased urine output may have hyperglycemia but is not in immediate danger. The client taking corticosteroids who is disoriented needs evaluation but is not in an acute life-threatening condition as the client with hypoglycemia.