What should the nurse do when a client’s fingerstick glucose is 105 mg/dL before breakfast and a tray is ready?

In managing a client's blood glucose levels, it's critical to take into account the timing of insulin administration and the patient's current blood sugar level. A fingerstick glucose reading of 105 mg/dL is within the normal range for fasting blood sugar.

When a patient is ready to eat (as indicated by the breakfast tray being available), it is standard practice to administer a rapid-acting insulin, such as lispro, to control postprandial (after-meal) glucose excursions. Additionally, glargine insulin, which is a long-acting insulin, is often given once daily to provide basal insulin coverage.

Since the fingerstick glucose level is neither high enough to warrant withholding insulin due to hyperglycemia nor low enough to cause concern for hypoglycemia, administering both insulins as prescribed is appropriate. The rapid-acting insulin will help manage the glucose rise expected after breakfast, while glargine will maintain overall glucose control throughout the day.

By ensuring both insulins are given in this situation, the nurse adheres to best practices for diabetes management, promoting safe and effective glucose control.