A nurse is caring for a hospitalized adult client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (type two). The client identifies as a devout Muslim and expresses concern about adhering to insulin therapy during Ramadan.
Which of the following is the best action by the nurse?
A nurse is caring for a hospitalized adult client with a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (type two). The client identifies as a devout Muslim and expresses concern about adhering to insulin therapy during Ramadan.
Which of the following is the best action by the nurse?
A. Encourage the client to adhere to the insulin regimen and adjust fasting to avoid hypoglycemia
[5%]
B. Discuss the importance of following medical treatment regardless of spiritual practices
[4%]
C. Collaborate with the healthcare provider and the client to modify the insulin regimen during Ramadan
[83%]
D. Educate the client on the long-term risks of diabetes complications without consistent treatment
[8%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Cultural Awareness/Cultural Influences
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice C is correct. This response demonstrates cultural competence and shared decision-making. It recognizes the client's autonomy and religious values while integrating safety through clinical planning. Collaborating with the provider allows for possible regimen adjustments (e.g., using long-acting insulin, reducing prescribed dosages, or timing doses around fasting hours).
Choice A is incorrect. This response places the burden of adaptation entirely on the client, without acknowledging the nurse’s role in coordinating culturally safe care. Suggesting the client change or adjust their religious fasting might come across as dismissive or disrespectful. While there is a legitimate concern about hypoglycemia, this approach lacks the clinical nuance and collaborative problem-solving that respects the client’s beliefs and promotes adherence.
Choice B is incorrect. This option fails to respect cultural diversity and can be perceived as culturally insensitive. It prioritizes biomedical treatment over the client’s values without attempting to reconcile the two. Such an approach can damage rapport and result in nonadherence.
Choice D is incorrect. While education is important, this response misses the client’s immediate concern about how to manage insulin while fasting. It is informative but passive, and does not offer a solution or plan of care. It also risks creating fear without fostering trust or engagement.
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2 Key Topics
Islam
13.6 Religious Considerations
Additional Info
✓ Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered a sacred time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims. During this month, practicing Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from all food, drink, and oral medications during daylight hours.
✓ Nurses should assess the client's intent to fast and collaborate with the healthcare team to develop a safe care plan. This might involve adjusting the timing and type of medications, such as modifying insulin regimens or meal-related dosing schedules.
