A 15-year-old client with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) is admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with a blood glucose level of 460 mg/dL (25.5 mmol/L). The nurse understands that which factor is contributing to this client's noncompliant behavior?

Question

A 15-year-old client with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) is admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with a blood glucose level of 460 mg/dL (25.5 mmol/L).  The nurse understands that which factor is contributing to this client's noncompliant behavior?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Certain behaviors are common in the adolescent period, ages 11 (early adolescence) to 20 (late adolescence). Teenagers engage in risk-taking behaviors and want to be just like their peers. Adolescents with chronic disease may have difficulty managing their illness due to a false sense of security and the belief that nothing bad can happen to them. (Option A) Although the client may not be managing the disease well currently, there is nothing to indicate that the child is suicidal. (Option C) It is unrealistic to expect the parents of an adolescent with DM to monitor the child's diet. Teenagers have developed their own code of behavior and need independence. (Option D) An adolescent is fully able to understand disease management, including risks of noncompliance, but may choose to ignore the issue out of a desire to be like peers. Educational objective: Adolescence in psychosocial development is marked by risk-taking behaviors, a sense of invincibility, the need for independence, and a strong connection to peers.

A 15-Year-Old Client with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Is