Nokea
The nurse is teaching a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus how to treat adverse reactions to insulin. To reverse a hypoglycemic reaction, the client ideally should ingest an oral carbohydrate. However, this treatment isn't always a possible or safe. Therefore, the nurse should advise the client to keep which alternate treatment on hand?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Glucagon is the hormone responsible for raising blood sugar levels in the body. In cases of severe hypoglycemic reactions where the client is unconscious or unable to ingest oral carbohydrates, glucagon can be administered via injection to help raise blood sugar levels rapidly. It is important for clients with type 1 diabetes mellitus to have glucagon on hand as a precautionary measure in case of severe hypoglycemic episodes. Epinephrine is typically used for severe allergic reactions, 50% dextrose is a form of oral carbohydrate, and hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication used for various conditions but not for treating hypoglycemia in clients with diabetes.