A nurse working in an emergency department is reviewing laboratory results of a client who is unconscious and has fruity odor to his breath. The nurse suspects diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following results should the nurse expect for this acid-base imbalance?

Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L

Serum pH 7.32

Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL

BUN 20 mg/dL

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L: A bicarbonate level of 26 mEq/L is within the normal range (22-28 mEq/L) and does not indicate metabolic acidosis, which is characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, bicarbonate levels are usually decreased due to buffering of the excess acids.

B) Serum pH 7.32: A serum pH of 7.32 is indicative of acidemia, which is consistent with metabolic acidosis seen in DKA. The pH is typically lower than the normal range (7.35-7.45) in DKA due to the accumulation of ketoacids.

C) Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL: A creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL is slightly elevated but does not specifically indicate metabolic acidosis. Elevated creatinine may suggest renal impairment but is not directly linked to the acid-base disturbance seen in DKA.

D) BUN 20 mg/dL: A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 20 mg/dL is elevated and may indicate dehydration or kidney dysfunction but does not specifically diagnose the acid-base imbalance associated with DKA. In DKA, bicarbonate and pH levels are more directly affected.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Drowsiness: While drowsiness can be a symptom of elevated magnesium levels, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately. Drowsiness can be observed with other conditions as well.

B) Diminished patellar reflexes: This can be indicative of hypermagnesemia, but it is a less immediate concern compared to other symptoms. Monitoring reflexes is important, but not the priority.

C) Generalized muscle weakness: Muscle weakness is a common symptom of elevated magnesium levels, but it is less urgent compared to cardiac issues. Although important, it does not pose an immediate risk like bradycardia.

D) Bradycardia: Elevated magnesium levels can cause serious cardiac complications, including bradycardia. This can be life-threatening and requires prompt attention to prevent severe outcomes, making it the priority to report to the provider.

A. "Clean the canister and cap of the inhaler every 2 weeks." B. "Wait 1 minute between puffs of the inhaler." C. "Tilt your head forward and inhale rapidly while depressing the canister." D. "Place your middle finger at the mouthpiece and your thumb at the top of the inhaler."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) "Clean the canister and cap of the inhaler every 2 weeks": While it's important to keep the inhaler clean, it should be cleaned more frequently than every 2 weeks. Typically, cleaning is recommended at least once a week to prevent medication buildup and ensure proper functioning.

B) "Wait 1 minute between puffs of the inhaler": Waiting 1 minute between puffs allows the medication from the first puff to take effect and opens the airways, making the second puff more effective. This practice helps maximize the medication's absorption and effectiveness.

C) "Tilt your head forward and inhale rapidly while depressing the canister": The correct technique involves tilting the head slightly back, not forward, to open the airways better. Additionally, the client should inhale slowly and deeply, rather than rapidly, to ensure the medication is properly delivered to the lungs.

D) "Place your middle finger at the mouthpiece and your thumb at the top of the inhaler": This description of finger placement is incorrect. The correct technique is to place the thumb at the base of the inhaler and the index and middle fingers on the top of the canister to allow for proper grip and activation of the inhaler.

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A nurse working in an emergency department is reviewing laboratory results of a client who is unconscious and has fruity odor to his breath. The nurse suspects diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following results should the nurse expect for this acid-base imbalance?

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