Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Diabetes Mellitus Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Diabetes Mellitus related questions and content

The nurse administers intramuscular glucagon to a patient who is unresponsive for treatment of hypoglycemia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take after the patient regains consciousness?

  • A. Assess the patient for symptoms of hyperglycemia.
  • B. Give the patient a snack of crackers and peanut butter.
  • C. Have the patient drink a glass of orange juice or nonfat milk.
  • D. Administer a continuous infusion of 5% dextrose for 24 hours.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rebound hypoglycemia can occur after glucagon administration, but having a meal containing complex carbohydrates plus protein and fat will help prevent hypoglycemia. A starch snack is recommended. Orange juice and nonfat milk will elevate blood sugar rapidly, but the cheese and crackers will stabilize blood sugar. Administration of glucose intravenously might be used in patients who were unable to take in nutrition orally. The patient should be assessed for symptoms of hypoglycemia after glucagon administration.