A nurse is caring for an adolescent who has been diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The nurse notes the following:

Exhibits

When planning care for this client, the nurse should anticipate a provider's prescription for which of the following?

Choice A reason: A low-sodium diet is not recommended for a child who has Addison's disease, as they need more sodium to maintain their blood pressure and fluid balance. A high-sodium diet may be advised instead. ¹

Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not a common manifestation of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of cortisol, which normally raises blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is more likely to occur and should be monitored and treated. ²

Choice C reason: Fluid volume excess, or edema, is not a common complication of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of aldosterone, which normally retains sodium and water in the body. Fluid volume deficit, or dehydration, is more likely to occur and should be prevented and corrected. ³

Choice D reason: Cortisol replacement therapy is the main treatment for Addison's disease, as it helps restore the normal function of the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal crisis. The parents should be taught about the dosage, timing, and side effects of the medication, as well as the signs and symptoms of underdose and overdose. They should also be instructed to increase the dose during times of stress, illness, or injury, and to carry an emergency injection kit. ⁴.

Choice A reason: Insulin therapy and fluid replacement are the main treatments for DKA, as they lower the blood glucose level and correct the dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by osmotic diuresis and acidosis.

Choice B reason: Glucagon injection and potassium supplements are not indicated for DKA, as they may worsen the hyperglycemia and the hyperkalemia. Glucagon stimulates the liver to release more glucose into the bloodstream, while potassium supplements may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Choice C reason: Bicarbonate infusion and sodium restriction are not the first-line treatments for DKA, as they may have adverse effects on the acid-base balance and the fluid status. Bicarbonate infusion may cause paradoxical cerebral acidosis and hypokalemia, while sodium restriction may exacerbate the hyponatremia and the hypovolemia.

Choice D reason: Dextrose infusion and diuretics are contraindicated for DKA, as they may increase the blood glucose level and the dehydration. Dextrose infusion may trigger a rebound hyperglycemia, while diuretics may cause further fluid and electrolyte loss.