A practical nurse is caring for a conscious client with diabetes mellitus who suddenly reports feeling shaky and weak. The client's skin is cool and clammy, and their capillary blood glucose is 58 mg/dL. In what order should the practical nurse implement the following actions?
- 1Administer 15 grams of a fast-acting simple carbohydrate.
- 2Wait 15 minutes to allow the body to absorb the sugar.
- 3Reassess the client's capillary blood glucose level.
- 4Provide a complex carbohydrate and protein snack.
Answer
The correct sequence is to administer a simple carbohydrate, wait 15 minutes, reassess the blood glucose, and finally provide a complex carbohydrate and protein snack.
The standard protocol for treating a conscious client with hypoglycemia is the 'Rule of 15'. The sequence begins with administering 15 grams of a fast-acting simple carbohydrate to rapidly raise the blood glucose. The nurse then waits 15 minutes for the sugar to absorb before reassessing the capillary blood glucose. Once the blood glucose is stabilized above 70 mg/dL, a snack containing a complex carbohydrate and protein is provided to sustain the blood glucose level and prevent a rebound hypoglycemic event.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Hypoglycemia Management (Rule of 15)