If a client's 1-hour oral glucose tolerance test result is elevated, what is the nurse's best course of action?

When a client's 1-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) result is elevated, it typically indicates that the client may be at risk for gestational diabetes or glucose intolerance. In this context, it is important to ensure accurate diagnosis and monitoring. Informing the client that further testing is necessary is the best course of action because it enables the healthcare team to confirm any potential diagnosis through a more reliable and comprehensive assessment.

After an elevated screening result, a follow-up test, such as a 3-hour OGTT, is often conducted to ascertain if the client indeed has gestational diabetes. This follow-up is crucial as it helps guide appropriate management to ensure both maternal and fetal health.

While dietary changes, increased physical activity, and scheduling follow-up appointments are valuable actions, they are more appropriate after confirming a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Therefore, ensuring that the client understands the need for further testing is essential for accurate diagnosis and subsequent care planning.