What does the nurse need to do if a client with diabetes has sustained hyperglycemia?

In the case of a client with diabetes who is experiencing sustained hyperglycemia, administering rapid-acting insulin is the appropriate action. Rapid-acting insulin is designed to quickly lower blood glucose levels after a meal or in response to high blood sugar events. This type of insulin starts to act within minutes and can effectively manage acute spikes in glucose levels, which is especially important for patients who are hyperglycemic.

This approach helps to achieve better glycemic control and prevents the potential complications associated with prolonged high blood sugar levels, such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state.

Other strategies in the management of diabetes, such as adjusting oral medications or basal insulin types, may have a role in overall diabetes management but are not immediate responses to acute hyperglycemia. Increasing carbohydrate intake would actually exacerbate the hyperglycemic state, making timely insulin administration crucial for the patient's health.