Ace the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Challenge 2026 – Energize Your Nursing Future!

The maximum safe rate for serum glucose reduction during hyperglycemia treatment is typically recommended to be no more than 100 mg/dL per hour, as faster reductions can lead to complications such as cerebral edema, especially in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS).

The selected choice indicating a range of 65-125 mg/dL/hr aligns with this guideline, as it encompasses the threshold that ensures a controlled and gradual correction of hyperglycemia. This careful management helps prevent the rapid fluctuations in glucose levels that can be detrimental to a patient's health, particularly in emergency situations. It is crucial to approach hyperglycemia with caution and closely monitor the patient's response during treatment to avoid potential adverse effects.

In contrast, the other options present rates that may exceed the recommended safe maximum, increasing the risk of complications associated with rapid glucose normalization. This understanding is vital in the context of emergency nursing, where rapid interventions are balanced against the safety of the patient.