The nurse is assessing a diaphoretic patient who has a heart rate of 112 beats per minute. The patient states, "I feel nervous and shaky." Which of the following actions by the nurse should be taken first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the patient is diaphoretic and feeling nervous and shaky, it is likely that they are experiencing hypoglycemia. Therefore, the nurse should obtain a capillary serum glucose level reading with a glucose meter first to confirm the diagnosis before taking any further action. Administering insulin or providing a snack without confirming the patient's blood sugar level could worsen their condition. Contacting the laboratory for a serum glucose level would also take too much time and delay appropriate treatment.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Diaphoretic Patient Who Has a Heart