A nurse is caring for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following is the priority intervention by the nurse?
initiate a continuous IV insulin infusion
Begin bicarbonate continuous IV infusion
Check potassium levels
Administer 0.9% sodium chloride
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is the first priority. The priority intervention for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is to normalize blood glucose levels and reverse the ketoacidosis. Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is essential to rapidly lower the elevated blood glucose levels and counteract the metabolic acidosis associated with DKA.
Choice B reason:
Beginning a bicarbonate continuous IV infusion is generally not the priority in DKA management. While metabolic acidosis is a concern in DKA, insulin therapy and fluid resuscitation are typically the initial focus of treatment.

Choice C reason:
Checking potassium levels is important since potassium imbalances are common in DKA. However, while this is important, it is not the first priority. It's important to ensure that insulin therapy has been initiated before addressing potassium levels.
Choice D reason:
Administering 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) is a crucial part of DKA treatment but it is not the first priority as it helps correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. However, starting insulin therapy to address the underlying metabolic issue takes precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Wound tissue firm to palpation is a false expectation. While firmness can be an indicator of healing in some wounds, it's not a reliable indicator on its own. The appearance and characteristics of the tissue, including granulation tissue, are more significant indicators of healing.
Choice B reason:
Dry brown eschar is a false expectation. Brown eschar is often necrotic tissue that needs to be removed for the wound to heal. Its presence typically suggests a lack of healing progress.
Choice C reason:
Dark red granulation tissue is the correct expectation because it is a sign of healing in a pressure ulcer. Granulation tissue is the new tissue that forms during the healing process, and the dark red color indicates that the tissue is well-vascularized and receiving adequate blood supply, which is essential for healing.
Dark red granulation tissue is a positive sign of wound healing. It indicates that new blood vessels are forming and that the wound is progressing toward the later stages of healing. Granulation tissue is crucial for wound repair and serves as the foundation for new tissue growth.
Choice D reason:
Light yellow exudate is a false expectation. Light yellow exudate is often indicative of infection or non-healing wounds. While some exudate is normal in the healing process, its colour alone doesn't necessarily indicate healing.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Placing the client in a protective environment is not necessary for C. difficile gastroenteritis. Standard precautions, including diligent hand hygiene and appropriate personal protective equipment, are sufficient.
Choice B Reason:
Obtain a stool specimen with gloves is necessary. Obtaining a stool specimen with gloves is an appropriate nursing action when caring for a client with Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) gastroenteritis. C. difficile is a bacterium that can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. It's important to follow infection control practices to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Choice C Reason:
Cleaning surfaces with chlorhexidine is not the preferred disinfectant for C. difficile. Sporicidal agents, such as bleach-based solutions, are recommended to effectively kill the spores of C. difficile.
Choice D Reason:
Washing hands with alcohol-based hand rub is not sufficient for C. difficile. C. difficile spores are resistant to alcohol-based hand sanitizers, so using soap and water for handwashing is recommended to ensure proper removal of the spores.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
