When a patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted for a ...

[JGIBBSON]

When a patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted for a cholecystectomy, which nursing action can the nurse delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?
 
  a. Communicate the blood glucose level and insulin dose to the circulating nurse in surgery.
  b. Discuss the reason for the use of insulin therapy during the immediate postoperative period.
  c. Administer the prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before transporting the patient to surgery.
  d. Plan strategies to minimize the risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia during the postoperative period.

Question 2

An active 28-year-old male with type 1 diabetes is being seen in the endocrine clinic. Which finding may indicate the need for a change in therapy?
 
  a. Hemoglobin A1C level 6.2
  b. Blood pressure 146/88 mmHg
  c. Heart rate at rest 58 beats/minute
  d. High density lipoprotein (HDL) level 65 mg/dL

[jaykayy05]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
LPN/LVN education and scope of practice includes administration of insulin. Communication about patient status with other departments, planning, and patient teaching are skills that require RN education and scope of practice.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
To decrease the incidence of macrovascular and microvascular problems in patients with diabetes, the goal blood pressure is usually 130/80. An A1C less than 6.5, a low resting heart rate (consistent with regular aerobic exercise in a young adult), and an HDL level of 65 mg/dL all indicate that the patient's diabetes and risk factors for vascular disease are well controlled.