What is the nurse's priority intervention when caring for a client with type 1 diabetes who is disoriented and diaphoretic?

In this scenario, the correct priority intervention involves checking the blood glucose level, as it is crucial to determine the cause of the client's disorientation and diaphoresis. In patients with type 1 diabetes, these symptoms can indicate either hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

By checking the blood glucose level first, the nurse can obtain objective data to guide further interventions. If the blood glucose is low, the nurse would need to administer carbohydrates or glucagon to address hypoglycemia. Conversely, if the blood glucose is high, the approach would differ, possibly necessitating insulin administration or other treatments.

While administering glucagon or giving carbohydrates can be important steps if hypoglycemia is confirmed or suspected, the immediate priority is to confirm the blood glucose level. Calling the healthcare provider for additional insulin would not be appropriate in this situation without first understanding the patient's current glucose status. Therefore, assessing the blood glucose level is the most critical initial step in this situation.