DANB General Chairside Practice Test

If a conscious patient exhibits signs of hyperglycemia, what is the first question a healthcare provider should ask?

1. "What medications are you currently taking?"

2. "When did you last eat and take your insulin?"

3. "Have you been under stress lately?"

4. "What symptoms are you experiencing?"

The correct answer is: "When did you last eat and take your insulin?"

In a scenario where a conscious patient shows signs of hyperglycemia, the most pertinent question to ask is about their last meal and insulin intake. This inquiry is critical for several reasons. Firstly, understanding when the patient last ate and their insulin usage helps to establish the context of their blood glucose levels. Hyperglycemia can result from insufficient insulin administration or inadequate carbohydrate management; therefore, knowing the timing of their meals and insulin shots provides insight into potential causes. Secondly, this question aids the healthcare provider in assessing whether the patient is experiencing a typical clinical presentation of diabetes management issues or if there are those symptoms stemming from another underlying condition. For example, if a patient has not eaten and has not taken their insulin for an extended period, it could signify an urgent need for intervention. While the other options may gather useful information, they do not directly address the immediate needs for managing hyperglycemia. As a result, focusing on meal and insulin timing is essential for determining the appropriate next steps in care and management.