66. A client who has diabetes is admitted to a hospital with a blood glucose of over 500, and states that the diabetic diet and exercise plan has been followed faithfully. The result of the HgbA1c is 10. The best interpretation by a nurse would be:
66. A client who has diabetes is admitted to a hospital with a blood glucose of over 500, and states that the diabetic diet and exercise plan has been followed faithfully. The result of the HgbA1c is 10. The best interpretation by a nurse would be:
. This is normal, nothing to worry about.
. This is just slightly above normal for a person who is nondiabetic.
. This is below normal.
. This is very high and the client needs to be honest with the medical team.
Test-Taking Tip
Three of the options focus on "normal," "slightly above normal," and "below normal." Choose the option that is different from the others ("very high"). HgbA1c is the best indication of glycemic control (below 7 is desired).
Content Area: Adult Health, Endocrine; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Laboratory Values
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the desired level for the HgbA1c is below 7. Answer 2 is incorrect because a HgbA1c of 6 would be consistent with a blood sugar of 138, and that would be normal for a person who has diabetes. Answer 3 is incorrect because a HgbA1c of 5 or less would be below normal. Answer 4 is correct because a HgbA1c of 5 is a blood sugar of approximately 100. A HgbA1c below 7 is desired. A HgbA1c of 10 reflects lack of glycemic control.