A patient newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus is admitted to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. ABG results reveal a pH of 7.2 and a bicarbonate level of 20 mEq/L. What other assessment findings should the nurse anticipate in this patient? Select all that apply.
Dysrhythmias.
Kussmaul respirations.
Weakness.
Cold, clammy skin.
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A rationale:
Dysrhythmias are not a direct consequence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or the acid-base imbalance indicated by the patient's pH of 7.2 and bicarbonate level of 20 mEq/L. DKA primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to Kussmaul respirations, not dysrhythmias.
Choice B rationale:
Kussmaul respirations are an expected finding in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and metabolic acidosis. These deep, rapid breaths are the body's attempt to compensate for the acidosis by eliminating excess CO2.
Choice C rationale:
Weakness is a common symptom of DKA. The hyperglycemia and acidosis result in intracellular dehydration and impaired cellular function, leading to weakness and fatigue.
Choice D rationale:
Cold, clammy skin is not typically associated with DKA. Instead, patients with DKA may have warm, dry skin due to dehydration and impaired thermoregulation.
Choice E rationale:
Tachycardia is an expected finding in a patient with DKA. The metabolic acidosis and dehydration lead to an increase in heart rate as the body attempts to maintain perfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choices A, B, and D. Here are the rationales for each choice:
Choice A rationale:
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium. One medium sweet potato contains about 542 mg of potassium, making it a great option for a high-potassium diet.
Choice B rationale:
Bananas are well-known for their high potassium content. A medium banana provides approximately 451 mg of potassium, which is beneficial for maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.
Choice C rationale:
Grapes are not particularly high in potassium compared to other fruits. They contain some potassium, but not enough to be considered a significant source for a high-potassium diet.
Choice D rationale:
Watermelon is a good source of potassium. Two wedges of watermelon contain about 640 mg of potassium, making it a suitable choice for increasing potassium intake.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Limit intake of canned soups and D. Read labels on foods before eating.
Choice A rationale:
Canned soups often contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to exceeding the recommended daily sodium intake. Limiting these can help manage sodium levels effectively.
Choice B rationale:
Choosing diet sodas over bottled water is not advisable. Diet sodas can still contain sodium and other additives that are not beneficial for a low-sodium diet. Bottled water is a better choice as it typically contains no sodium.
Choice C rationale:
Bottled salad dressings often contain high amounts of sodium. Opting for homemade or low-sodium versions is a better strategy for maintaining a low-sodium diet.
Choice D rationale:
Reading labels on foods before eating is crucial for identifying hidden sources of sodium and making informed dietary choices. This practice helps in adhering to a low-sodium diet by avoiding foods with high sodium content.
: 3
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.