what are the complications of untreated hyperglycemia

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023

1. What are the complications of untreated hyperglycemia?

A. Diabetic ketoacidosis and dehydration
B. Hypoglycemia and hypertension
C. Infection and liver failure
D. Pulmonary edema and electrolyte imbalance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diabetic ketoacidosis and dehydration. Untreated hyperglycemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication characterized by high blood sugar, the presence of ketones in the urine, and acidosis. Dehydration is also a common complication of untreated hyperglycemia. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because hypoglycemia and hypertension are not typical complications of untreated hyperglycemia. Infection and liver failure, as well as pulmonary edema and electrolyte imbalance, are also not direct complications of untreated hyperglycemia.

2. Which intervention is essential when caring for a client with heart failure on fluid restriction?

A. Encourage the client to drink water throughout the day
B. Monitor the client's weight daily to assess fluid balance
C. Limit fluid intake during meals
D. Weigh the client once a week to assess fluid balance

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Monitor the client's weight daily to assess fluid balance.' When caring for a client with heart failure on fluid restriction, it is essential to monitor their weight daily to evaluate fluid balance accurately. This helps healthcare providers assess if the client is retaining excess fluid, a common issue in heart failure. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Encouraging the client to drink water throughout the day contradicts fluid restriction. Limiting fluid intake during meals may not provide a comprehensive assessment of fluid balance, and weighing the client once a week is not frequent enough to detect rapid changes in fluid status that could worsen heart failure symptoms.

3. What are the principles of aseptic technique in wound care?

A. Use sterile gloves and a clean dressing
B. Apply a clean dressing using sterile scissors
C. Wash hands thoroughly before applying the dressing
D. Use a clean glove and avoid contact with the wound

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Use sterile gloves and a clean dressing.' Aseptic technique in wound care requires the use of sterile gloves to prevent infection. Choice B is incorrect as the method of application does not primarily focus on maintaining asepsis. Choice C, while important for infection control, is not specific to aseptic technique in wound care. Choice D is incorrect because using a single clean glove does not ensure the level of sterility needed for aseptic wound care.

4. What are the steps in managing a patient with a pressure ulcer?

A. Clean the wound and apply a hydrocolloid dressing
B. Debride necrotic tissue and apply antibiotics
C. Apply an alginate dressing and elevate the affected area
D. Use moisture-retentive dressings and reposition frequently

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clean the wound and apply a hydrocolloid dressing. This step is crucial in managing a pressure ulcer as it helps protect the ulcer from infection and promotes healing by creating a moist environment conducive to tissue repair. Choice B, debriding necrotic tissue and applying antibiotics, is more suitable for managing infected pressure ulcers but not as the initial step. Choice C, applying an alginate dressing and elevating the affected area, may be part of the management but is not the initial step. Choice D, using moisture-retentive dressings and repositioning frequently, is important for prevention but not the first step in managing an existing pressure ulcer.

5. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use when performing nasotracheal suctioning for a client?

A. Insert the suction catheter while the client is swallowing
B. Apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter
C. Place the catheter in a clean, dry location for later use
D. Hold the suction catheter with the non-dominant hand

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct technique when performing nasotracheal suctioning is to apply intermittent suction when withdrawing the catheter. This method helps reduce trauma to the mucosa by preventing prolonged suctioning. Choice A is incorrect because inserting the suction catheter while the client is swallowing may increase the risk of aspiration. Choice C is incorrect as placing the catheter in a clean, dry location for later use is not a safe practice as it can lead to contamination. Choice D is incorrect since it does not address the proper technique involved in nasotracheal suctioning.