Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

During which phase is it particularly crucial to monitor a diabetic patient’s glucose level closely?

1. Preoperative phase

2. Intraoperative phase

3. Phase 1 postoperative phase

4. Phase 2 postoperative phase

The correct answer is: Phase 1 postoperative phase

Monitoring a diabetic patient’s glucose level closely during the Phase 1 postoperative phase is particularly crucial due to several factors inherent to the recovery process. After surgery, the body undergoes significant stress, which can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Stress hormones, such as cortisol and epinephrine, are released, which can raise blood glucose levels, while the patient may also experience changes in intake and insulin sensitivity postoperatively. Additionally, during Phase 1 postoperative care, the patient is often in a more vulnerable state, with ongoing monitoring of vital signs, pain management, and fluid balance. Ensuring that blood glucose levels are stable at this time is vital for preventing complications such as infection, delayed wound healing, and hyperglycemic emergencies. Recognizing and addressing abnormal glucose levels promptly is essential to support optimal recovery and overall patient safety. In contrast, while glucose monitoring remains important in the preoperative phase and both postoperative phases, the critical nature of the immediate postoperative state—when patients are most closely watched and when interventions may be necessary to address acute changes—highlights why this phase is emphasized.