A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis and is receiving intravenous fluids. Which of the following electrolytes should the nurse monitor closely for signs of imbalance? (Select all that apply.)
Chloride.
Phosphate.
Bicarbonate.
Sulfate.
Potassium.
Correct Answer : C,E
Choice A reason:
Chloride is not a major electrolyte that is affected by diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) Chloride levels may be low, normal or high depending on the acid-base status and hydration of the client. Therefore, chloride is not a priority electrolyte to monitor for signs of imbalance.
Choice B reason:
Phosphate is also not a major electrolyte that is affected by DKA. Phosphate levels may be low due to insulin therapy or high due to renal impairment, but these are not directly related to DKA. Therefore, phosphate is not a priority electrolyte to monitor for signs of imbalance.
Choice C reason:
Bicarbonate is a major electrolyte that is affected by DKA. Bicarbonate levels are low in DKA due to metabolic acidosis caused by the accumulation of ketones in the blood. Low bicarbonate levels can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion and coma. Therefore, bicarbonate is a priority electrolyte to monitor for signs of imbalance.
Choice D reason:
Sulfate is not a major electrolyte that is affected by DKA. Sulfate levels are not routinely measured in clinical practice and have no significant role in DKA. Therefore, sulfate is not a priority electrolyte to monitor for signs of imbalance.
Choice E reason:
Potassium is a major electrolyte that is affected by DKA. Potassium levels can be high or low in DKA depending on several factors such as insulin therapy, fluid replacement, renal function and acid-base status. High or low potassium levels can cause cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, paralysis and respiratory failure. Therefore, potassium is a priority electrolyte to monitor for signs of imbalance.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
No explanation
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Increased insulin production.Infants with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are at risk for hypoglycemia due to poor nutrient reserves and hyperinsulinism.
Hyperinsulinism is a condition where the pancreas produces too much insulin, which lowers the blood glucose level.Infants with IUGR may have hyperinsulinism because of placental insufficiency, maternal diabetes, or fetal stress.
Choice A is wrong because increased glycogen stores would protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.
Glycogen is a form of stored glucose that can be broken down when blood glucose level is low.
Choice B is wrong because decreased gluconeogenesis would also protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.
Gluconeogenesis is a process where the liver makes glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids or lactate.
Choice D is wrong because decreased glucose consumption would also protect against hypoglycemia, not cause it.
Glucose consumption is the rate at which cells use glucose for energy production.
If glucose consumption is low, blood glucose level would be high.
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