What should be done if a diabetic patient’s blood glucose monitoring results are too high?

When a diabetic patient’s blood glucose monitoring results are too high, the appropriate response is to inform the nurse immediately. This step is crucial because elevated blood glucose levels, known as hyperglycemia, can lead to serious health complications if not addressed in a timely manner. The nurse will have the training and authority to assess the situation, determine the severity of the hyperglycemia, and decide on the necessary interventions, such as adjusting medication or providing further medical care.

Ignoring the results could endanger the patient’s health, as high blood glucose levels can lead to conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Providing more snacks can further exacerbate the issue by increasing blood sugar levels even further, contrary to what the patient needs. Reducing physical activity is not a viable solution either; in fact, appropriate exercise can help lower blood sugar levels when performed safely and as advised by a healthcare provider. Thus, notifying the nurse is the most responsible and effective course of action in managing high blood glucose results.