The nurse is caring for a long-term diabetic patient with a ...

[jazziefee]

The nurse is caring for a long-term diabetic patient with a glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 5. Which statement indicates that the patient understands this laboratory result?
 
  a. My hemoglobin A levels are excellent.
  b. I am anemic and may need a blood transfusion.
  c. I should meet with the dietician to dis-cuss better food choices.
  d. My glucose control has been excellent for the last few weeks.

Question 2

When caring for a male patient with a suspected gonorrheal infection, which action is most important for the nurse to take?
 
  a. Report the infection to the local public health agency.
  b. Assess the patient's temperature hourly.
  c. Administer antibiotics before cultures are drawn.
  d. Wait 1 hour after the patient voids to col-lect a urethral swab.

[perkiness]

Answer to Question 1

D
The hemoglobin A1c (A1C) test (formerly called the glycosylated hemoglobin test) measures blood glucose over a period of many weeks. Glucose in the bloodstream attaches itself to the hemoglobin A (red blood cell) molecule and remains there for the life span of the red blood cell. Physicians use A1C test results to prescribe adjustments to a patient's treatment program for managing diabetes. Results of 4.9 to 6.7 are considered excellent results. Good results are between 7.6 and 8.5. Fair results are between 9.4 and 10.0. Poor control is considered between 12.1 and 13.0.

Answer to Question 2

D
Since the urine will have flushed out the organisms, the nurse should wait at least 1 hour postvo-id before collecting the specimen. The infection has not been confirmed, so no report should be made at this time. The patient's temperature should be obtained each shift. Administering anti-biotics before cultures are drawn may cause cultures to be negative even though the drug or the dose may not be sufficient to cure the infection. If possible, obtain cultures prior to administering antibiotics.