What action should the nurse take on the scheduled day of surgery for a client with type 1 diabetes?

The recommended action for the nurse to take on the scheduled day of surgery for a client with type 1 diabetes involves obtaining a prescription for an adjusted dose of insulin. This is crucial because clients with type 1 diabetes require insulin for glucose control, and surgery can affect their usual insulin needs and glucose levels.

During surgery, the body experiences stress, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels. Therefore, it's essential to have an insulin regimen in place that accounts for the unique circumstances of the day, including changes in food intake and the physiological stress of surgery. Adjusting the insulin dose allows proper management of blood glucose, minimizing the risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia during the perioperative period.

The other methods mentioned are not appropriate for this situation. Using oral anti-diabetic agents is not suitable since these medications are typically prescribed for type 2 diabetes, and the client in question has type 1 diabetes that necessitates insulin therapy. Administering an insulin dose based on a sliding scale may not be sufficient without prior adjustment specific to the upcoming surgery and fasting state. Additionally, withholding insulin while the client is NPO is equally concerning, as this could lead to dangerous increases in blood glucose levels due to lack of insulin coverage, placing the