Problem
Diabetes Case Study
Mr. D is a 20-year-old university student who has been brought to the ER by his roommate. Mr. D is complaining of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, polyuria and thirst. His face and neck are very flushed and his lips are pale and dry. Mr. D's respirations are deep and rapid and there is a fruity odor to his breath. He is alert and able to answer questions; however, he is having trouble focusing on the triage nurse's question. Mr. D states he is a Type I diabetic and may have missed a dose or two of insulin due to studying for final exams.
Vitals signs: Temperature 38.2*C; Heart rate 120 beats/min; Respiratory rate 32 breaths/min; Blood pressure 100/60 mmHg
Blood glucose (fingerstick) 30.1 mmol/L
Mr. D is moved into a room in the ER - you are his assigned nurse
What additional assessment should be completed before reporting to the ER healthcare provider (HCP)?