The nurse is caring for an adolescent with type 1 diabetes mellitus who presents with an HbA1c of 11% (97 mmol/mol), thirst, and blurred vision. What action should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale The first action the nurse should take when caring for an adolescent with type 1 diabetes mellitus who presents with an HbA1c of 11% (97 mmol/mol), thirst, and blurred vision is to obtain point-of-care glucose. These symptoms are indicative of hyperglycemia, and immediate blood glucose testing is necessary to confirm this and guide further treatment. Choice B rationale Assessing urine for ketones is important in managing diabetes, especially in cases of suspected diabetic ketoacidosis. However, this would not be the first action to take in this scenario. Choice C rationale Checking blood pressure is a standard part of any physical assessment, but it would not be the first action to take in this scenario. Choice D rationale Reviewing prior insulin prescriptions can provide valuable information about the patient’s management of their diabetes, but it would not be the first action to take in this scenario.