A patient with diabetes mellitus is admitted to the hospital with lower back pain. The patient's blood glucose is 563 mg/dl upon admission. Which assessment finding would the nurse most likely note with this blood glucose level?
Explanation
• Hyperglycemia causes polydipsia, polyuria, and polyphagia. Fluid loss related to polyuria causes fluid volume deficit and a decrease in blood pressure. A pulse that is rapid and thready is a sign of fluid volume deficit
• Persipiration and tremors are associated with hypoglycemia
• Deep, labored breathing is associated with hyperglycemia