The nurse should instruct clients with diabetes about "sick day management" of their disease by emphasizing which action?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Use sliding scale insulin to manage hypoglycemia: Sliding scale insulin is used to manage hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. Sick day management focuses on maintaining stable blood glucose levels, not using sliding scale insulin for hypoglycemia. B. Continue taking the scheduled insulin or oral hypoglycemic agent: During illness, it is essential for clients with diabetes to continue their medication as prescribed. This helps prevent both hyperglycemia and ketosis, which can occur due to illness-induced stress. C. Increase intake of carbohydrates for the duration of the illness: It is not necessary to increase carbohydrate intake unless the client is unable to eat enough food. It’s more important to maintain hydration and monitor blood glucose levels, adjusting insulin doses as needed. D. Report blood glucose lower than 100 mg/dL to the health care provider: Blood glucose levels below 100 mg/dL are generally considered within normal range. During illness, clients may experience higher blood glucose levels, which are more concerning.