Question

The client is admiitted to the emergency room with a blood glucose level of \(35 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{dl}\). The nurse should anticipate an order for which medication? A. Acarbose (Precose) B. Glyburide (Diabeta) C. Rosiglitazone (Avandia) D. Glucagon (GlucaGen)

Short answer

A. Acarbose (Precose) B. Glyburide (Diabeta) C. Rosiglitazone (Avandia) D. Glucagon (GlucaGen) Answer: D. Glucagon (GlucaGen)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the context and the normal range of blood glucose levels

The normal range of blood glucose levels (fasting) in a non-diabetic person is typically between 70 to 100 mg/dl. A level of 35 mg/dl suggests that the patient is experiencing hypoglycemia, which is a significantly low blood sugar level.

Analyze the medication options

We are given four medication options. Let's briefly analyze each one: A. Acarbose (Precose) - This medication is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used to manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by delaying the digestion of carbohydrates to slow down the increase in blood sugar. B. Glyburide (Diabeta) - Glyburide is a sulfonylurea drug prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin, lowering blood sugar levels. C. Rosiglitazone (Avandia) - Rosiglitazone is a thiazolidinedione drug that improves insulin sensitivity and helps lower blood sugar levels. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes. D. Glucagon (GlucaGen) - Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose. It is used to treat severe hypoglycemia.

Determine the appropriate medication

Since the patient has a blood glucose level of 35 mg/dl, which indicates hypoglycemia, the appropriate medication to anticipate would be one that raises blood sugar levels. Out of the four options given, only Glucagon (GlucaGen) serves that purpose. The other medications are used to manage high blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.

Select the correct answer

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is D. Glucagon (GlucaGen), as it raises blood sugar levels to treat hypoglycemia.