A nurse is admitting a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following types of continuous infusions should the nurse initiate?

A. Explain long term consequences of the procedure to the child. This level of detail is not developmentally appropriate for a school-age child. It may increase anxiety without helping the child understand or cope with the immediate situation.
B. Remove the dressings while explaining the procedure to the child. While it is important to explain procedures, it should be done before starting to allow time for questions and emotional preparation. Explaining during may cause confusion or distraction.
C. Keep equipment out of the child's sight. Hiding equipment can actually increase fear and mistrust. School-age children benefit from open, age-appropriate communication and preparation about what to expect.
D. Allow the child to help remove the dressings. This is the most appropriate action. Allowing the child to participate in their care provides a sense of control, reduces anxiety, and helps build trust. It also aligns with the developmental need of school-age children to take on increasing responsibility and be involved in decision-making.

A. 0.45% saline. This is a hypotonic solution, which may be used later in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) management, but it is not appropriate for initial fluid resuscitation as it does not rapidly expand intravascular volume.
B. NPH insulin. NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin and is not used for continuous infusion. In DKA, rapid insulin correction is needed, typically with a short-acting insulin like regular insulin.
C. 0.9% normal saline. This isotonic fluid is the first-line choice for fluid replacement in clients with DKA. It helps restore circulating volume and correct dehydration quickly, which is a critical initial intervention.
D. Glargine insulin. Glargine is a long-acting insulin and not suitable for IV infusion. DKA requires the use of short-acting insulin (e.g., regular insulin) administered via IV infusion to correct hyperglycemia and acidosis.