A client with diabetes who uses insulin and takes propranolo… | MyMerci
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Medication Administration PPT
Question

A client with diabetes who uses insulin and takes propranolol reports sudden sweating and difficulty concentrating but no palpitations. Which instruction should the nurse give?

Explanation
Propranolol can mask adrenergic warning signs of hypoglycemia, including pulse and blood pressure changes. Sweating may remain, so new diaphoresis or neuroglycopenic symptoms in a client using insulin require an immediate glucose check rather than reassurance or an independent medication hold.
Next question on this topicBefore giving a scheduled dose of digoxin, the nurse obtains an apical pulse of 54/min in …

In-depth explanation

Quick answer
Check blood glucose immediately.

Why this is correct
Propranolol can blunt adrenergic warning signs of hypoglycemia. The absence of palpitations does not exclude a low glucose level, and sweating with difficulty concentrating is concerning in a client using insulin.

Easy analogy or mental picture
The beta blocker can silence part of the body's low-glucose alarm while the emergency is still occurring.

Memory hook
Beta blocker plus insulin: symptoms mean check glucose.

NCLEX decision rule
When a medication can mask a dangerous assessment cue, verify the objective value before withholding a prescribed drug or dismissing the symptom.

Why the other choices are wrong
Independent dose omission is premature, a normal pulse cannot rule out hypoglycemia, and unexplained sweating requires assessment.
References
1DailyMed: Propranolol hydrochlorideHypoglycemia risk and masking of pulse or blood pressure changes
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For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.