The nurse has reviewed the Provider Prescriptions at 1045. Exhibits Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

Rationale for Correct Choice Administer regular insulin 4 units subcutaneously x 1 dose: The client’s blood glucose is significantly elevated at 250 mg/dL and they are showing signs of hyperglycemia (polyuria, weight loss, nausea). Administering insulin addresses an immediate metabolic imbalance and helps prevent complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Rationale for Incorrect Choices Apply dressing to the foot wound: Although the wound requires care, it is not the most urgent issue. Delaying insulin administration in a hyperglycemic client with systemic symptoms could increase the risk of metabolic crisis. Wound care can follow stabilization. Schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist: While ophthalmologic evaluation is essential for clients with diabetes, this is a non-urgent referral and can be scheduled after acute needs like hyperglycemia and wound care are addressed. Consult an outpatient wound care specialist: Coordinating specialized wound care is important for infection control and healing, but it is not time-sensitive. The priority is addressing the elevated blood glucose level first to stabilize the client's condition.