Cardiac monitoring is initiated for a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis. The nurse determines that this measure is important to identify:
Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes and dysrhythmias related to hypokalemia.
The presence of hypovolemic shock related to osmotic diuresis.
Cardiovascular collapse resulting from the effects of hyperglycemia.
Fluid overload resulting from aggressive fluid replacement.
The Correct Answer is A
Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes and dysrhythmias related to hypokalemia are the main reasons for initiating cardiac monitoring in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. In diabetic ketoacidosis, insulin deficiency causes the body to break down fat for energy, leading to the production of ketones and resulting in metabolic acidosis. In addition, glucose and potassium are lost in the urine due to osmotic diuresis. Hypokalemia can cause ECG changes and dysrhythmias, which can be life-threatening.
Hypokalemia is a common complication of DKA and can lead to ECG changes such as ST-segment depression, T-wave inversion, and U waves².
Hypovolemic shock related to osmotic diuresis is an important consideration in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis, but it is not the primary reason for initiating cardiac monitoring.
Cardiovascular collapse resulting from the effects of hyperglycemia is not a common complication of diabetic ketoacidosis, and it is not the primary reason for initiating cardiac monitoring.
Fluid overload resulting from aggressive fluid replacement is a potential complication of diabetic ketoacidosis, but it is not the primary reason for initiating cardiac monitoring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The patient's bounding, rapid pulse and systolic hypertension may indicate cardiovascular complications associated with Graves' disease, such as tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, or congestive heart failure, which can cause chest pain. It is important for the nurse to assess for any symptoms of cardiovascular distress and report any abnormal findings to the healthcare provider for prompt intervention. Questions about appetite and constipation may be relevant to the patient's overall health status, but they are not the most important concern in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The pH value is less than the normal range of 7.35-7.45, indicating acidosis. The PaCO2 value is elevated above the normal range of 35-45 mmHg, indicating respiratory acidosis. The PaO2 value is lower than normal, but not significantly low enough to indicate hypoxemia. The HCO3- level is within the normal range, but not significantly high enough to indicate metabolic compensation for respiratory acidosis.
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