Assessment of a Patient Related

Review Assessment of a Patient related questions and content

A pregnant client diagnosed with diabetes mellitus arrives at the primary health care clinic for a follow-up visit. What best assessment should the nurse perform to assess insulin function?

  • A. Urine for specific gravity
  • B. For the presence of edema
  • C. Urine for glucose and ketones
  • D. Blood pressure, pulse, and respirations
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a pregnant client with diabetes mellitus, assessing insulin function is critical to ensure glycemic control and prevent complications. Testing urine for glucose and ketones is the best assessment, as it directly indicates whether insulin is effectively managing blood glucose levels (glucose in urine suggests hyperglycemia) and whether the client is at risk for ketoacidosis (ketones indicate fat metabolism due to insufficient insulin). Urine specific gravity reflects hydration status, not insulin function. Edema assessment is relevant for preeclampsia or fluid overload, not insulin function. Vital signs like blood pressure, pulse, and respirations provide general health information but are not specific to insulin function.