A client with type 1 diabetes has influenza and a poor appetite. Which sick-day instructions should the nurse include? Select exactly 3 responses.
Select All That Apply
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Correct selections are 1, 4, and 6. Illness can raise glucose and ketone production even when appetite is poor, so insulin is continued with individualized guidance rather than stopped. Blood glucose is checked about every 4 hours, hydration is maintained, and ketones are checked as directed. Ketones, breathing difficulty, or inability to retain liquids can signal diabetic ketoacidosis or dehydration and require urgent care.
Clinical reasoning Stress hormones during illness can increase glucose and insulin needs despite reduced food intake. Stopping insulin in type 1 diabetes can rapidly permit ketosis.
Decision rule Continue prescribed insulin, monitor glucose frequently, drink fluids, check ketones according to the sick-day plan, and escalate for ketones, respiratory difficulty, or inability to keep liquids down.