Author Question: A nurse reviews the medication list of a client with a 20-year history of diabetes mellitus. The ... (Read 54 times)

jasdeep_brar · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse reviews the medication list of a client with a 20-year history of diabetes mellitus. The client holds up the bottle of prescribed duloxetine (Cymbalta) and states, My cousin has depression and is taking this drug. Do you think I'm depressed?

How should the nurse respond?
a.
Many people with long-term diabetes become depressed after a while.
b.
It's for peripheral neuropathy. Do you have burning pain in your feet or hands?
c.
This antidepressant also has anti-inflammatory properties for diabetic pain.
d.
No. Many medications can be used for several different disorders.

Question 2

A nurse teaches a client with diabetes mellitus who is experiencing numbness and reduced sensation. Which statement should the nurse include in this client's teaching to prevent injury?

a. Examine your feet using a mirror every day.
b. Rotate your insulin injection sites every week.
c. Check your blood glucose level before each meal.
d. Use a bath thermometer to test the water temperature.

bookworm410 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Damage along nerves causes peripheral neuropathy and leads to burning pain along the nerves. Many drugs, including duloxetine (Cymbalta), can be used to treat peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should assess the client for this condition and then should provide an explanation of why this drug is being used. This medication, although it is used for depression, is not being used for that reason in this case. Duloxetine does not have anti-inflammatory properties. Telling the client that many medications are used for different disorders does not provide the client with enough information to be useful.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Clients with diminished sensory perception can easily experience a burn injury when bathwater is too hot. Instead of checking the temperature of the water by feeling it, they should use a thermometer. Examining the feet daily does not prevent injury, although daily foot examinations are important to find problems so they can be addressed. Rotating insulin and checking blood glucose levels will not prevent injury.