A nurse determines that a patient with diabetes mellitus and the following laboratory results is: Fasting blood glucose: 75 mg/dL. Postprandial blood glucose: 180 mg/dL. Hemoglobin A1c level: 5.5%.

Choice A rationale The laboratory values provided are all within or very close to the recommended target ranges for good glycemic control. A fasting blood glucose of 75 mg/dL is within the normal range (70-99 mg/dL). A postprandial blood glucose of 180 mg/dL is an acceptable target for post-meal values in people with diabetes. The hemoglobin A1c of 5.5% is below the diagnostic threshold for diabetes and indicates excellent long-term glucose control. Choice B rationale Ketoacidosis is a serious complication of uncontrolled diabetes, typically characterized by hyperglycemia (blood glucose > 250 mg/dL), ketonuria, and metabolic acidosis. The patient's blood glucose and A1c levels are well-controlled, indicating that they are not at increased risk for developing ketoacidosis. These values signify stable blood sugar management. Choice C rationale Hyperglycemia is defined as elevated blood glucose levels, with a fasting level typically greater than 126 mg/dL. The patient's fasting blood glucose is 75 mg/dL, and their A1c is 5.5%, both of which are not indicative of hyperglycemia. The patient's results demonstrate successful blood glucose management, not a risk for hyperglycemia. Choice D rationale Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. The patient's laboratory values, especially the low fasting glucose and A1c, indicate that their body is responding well to insulin, whether endogenous or administered. The results do not support a diagnosis of insulin resistance.