A client with type 2 diabetes on a single daily oral hypoglycemic tablet asks whether an extra pill should be taken before exercise. The nurse should respond with which statement?

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Multiple Choice

A client with type 2 diabetes on a single daily oral hypoglycemic tablet asks whether an extra pill should be taken before exercise. The nurse should respond with which statement?

Explanation:
During exercise, muscles take up more glucose and insulin sensitivity changes, which can lower blood glucose, especially for someone taking an oral hypoglycemic. The safest and most appropriate nurse response is to emphasize monitoring for signs of hypoglycemia during exercise and to check blood glucose before and during activity, with a plan to treat low blood sugar if it occurs (for example, having fast-acting carbohydrate available). Taking an extra pill or increasing exercise intensity isn’t advised without clinician guidance, and ignoring glycemic status isn’t safe. This approach prioritizes safety and helps you manage exercise without compromising glucose control.

During exercise, muscles take up more glucose and insulin sensitivity changes, which can lower blood glucose, especially for someone taking an oral hypoglycemic. The safest and most appropriate nurse response is to emphasize monitoring for signs of hypoglycemia during exercise and to check blood glucose before and during activity, with a plan to treat low blood sugar if it occurs (for example, having fast-acting carbohydrate available). Taking an extra pill or increasing exercise intensity isn’t advised without clinician guidance, and ignoring glycemic status isn’t safe. This approach prioritizes safety and helps you manage exercise without compromising glucose control.

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