The LPN answers the call light of a patient with diabetes. The patient has a mild tremor, slight diaphoresis, and is fully oriented. What should the nurse do?
a. Check the patient's blood glucose level.
b. Call the laboratory for a STAT glucose level.
c. Call the RN to administer dextrose 50% intravenously.
d. Administer 4 oz of orange juice with one packet of sugar.
ANS: A
Since the patient is oriented, there is time to check the blood glucose. B. Calling the laboratory takes too long and is unnecessary. D. Giving orange juice or another CHO (carbohydrate) source will be the next step, but adding sugar increases the risk of hyperglycemia. C. 50% dextrose is used if the patient is unable to take oral CHO.
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Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).