A nurse is collecting a capillary specimen for blood glucose from a patient on an insulin drip to treat postoperative hyperglycemia.The patient reports pain from the multiple, hourly fingersticks required by the intensive insulin protocol.Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using alternate sites like the earlobe or forearm can affect the accuracy of blood glucose readings, especially in rapidly changing glucose levels. Decreasing the frequency of monitoring could compromise patient safety. Alternating to the great toe is not a standard practice due to risk of infection and less reliable readings. The best practice is to avoid the finger pad, which is more sensitive, and bruised areas to minimize pain and tissue damage.

A Nurse Is Collecting a Capillary Specimen for Blood Glucose