A patient with diabetes is diaphoretic, has a heart rate of 112 beats per minute, and is feeling nervous and shaky. What action should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Based on the symptoms provided, it is likely that the patient is experiencing hypoglycemia. Therefore, obtaining a capillary serum glucose level reading with a glucose meter is the priority action to confirm the diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. Administering insulin via a sliding scale dosages or providing the patient with a snack may exacerbate hypoglycemia. Contacting the laboratory to order a serum glucose level is not an immediate priority when treating hypoglycemia.

A Patient with Diabetes Is Diaphoretic, Has a Heart Rate