What issue did a patient face due to underdosing insulin from an obstructed insulin pump?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Diarrhea
• D. Nausea

Answer: (B)

When a patient experiences underdosing of insulin from an obstructed insulin pump, it can lead to hyperglycemia. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells. If the delivery of insulin is insufficient, the body cannot effectively lower blood glucose levels, resulting in elevated blood sugar. This situation is particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes, as consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications over time, including diabetic ketoacidosis, cardiovascular issues, and nerve damage.

The other options, such as hypoglycemia, diarrhea, and nausea, are not directly linked to the underdosing of insulin in this context. Hypoglycemia would occur with an overdosage of insulin, while diarrhea and nausea could relate to other factors or medical conditions unrelated to the underdosing of insulin. Therefore, understanding the role of insulin in glucose metabolism clarifies why hyperglycemia is the expected result of an obstructed insulin pump delivering inadequate doses.