A client who has diabetes mellitus is diagnosed with tuberculosis and has been prescribed multiple-drug therapy. What instruction should the nurse provide to this client?

Question

1. These medications can cause hypoglycemia, so you should always carry a sugar source.
2. Test your blood glucose more frequently while on these medications.
3. If your blood glucose levels elevate consistently, contact us.
4. Take your medication for diabetes at least 6 hours after taking these medications.
5. While on these medications, you will be more prone to infections in your feet.

Answer 1

2,3
Rationale 1: The medication regimen is more likely to cause hyperglycemia.
Rationale 2: These medications may cause hyperglycemia. The client should monitor blood glucose levels more closely.
Rationale 3: Constant elevation of blood glucose levels may warrant alteration in medication therapy for diabetes.
Rationale 4: There is no reason to separate the administration of these medications by 6 hours.
Rationale 5: There is no evidence that medications used to treat tuberculosis will increase the likelihood of infections in the feet.
Global Rationale: These medications may cause hyperglycemia. The client should monitor blood glucose levels more closely. Constant elevation of blood glucose levels may warrant alteration in medication therapy for diabetes.
There is no reason to separate the administration of these medications by 6 hours. There is no evidence that medications used to treat tuberculosis will increase the likelihood of infections in the feet.