The nurse teaches an older patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus how to manage their diabetes when becoming acutely ill with a cold or other infection. Which statements indicate that instruction has been effective? Select all that apply.

Question

1. "I should call the doctor if I have severe diarrhea."
2. "My blood glucose levels will not change when I'm ill."
3. "I should change my oral meds to insulin if I'm vomiting."
4. "A large amount of ketones in my urine is to be expected."
5. "I should not take my medication if I can't eat and call the doctor."

Answer 1

1. "I should call the doctor if I have severe diarrhea."
5. "I should not take my medication if I can't eat and call the doctor."

Explanation: 1. The patient with diabetes should notify the physician for any episodes of severe diarrhea. This statement indicates that teaching has been effective.
2. The patient with diabetes should monitor blood glucose levels closely since illness frequently alters them. This statement indicates that teaching has not been effective.
3. The patient with diabetes should notify the physician for any vomiting since medication dosages may need to be adjusted. Changing the route of administration is a physician order. This statement indicates that teaching has not been effective.
4. The patient with diabetes should notify the physician for large amounts of ketones in the urine. This statement indicates that teaching has not been effective.
5. The patient with diabetes should be instructed to not take medication if unable to eat since taking medication could cause hypoglycemia. This statement indicates that teaching has been effective.