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Exhibits

For each assessment finding, click to specify if the assessment finding is consistent with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic-hyperosmolar state (HHS). Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.

A.

Urine ketones

B.

Creatinine greater than expected reference range

C.

Blood glucose greater than expected reference range

D.

Skin turgor

E.

Blood pH greater than expected reference range

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A,B"},"D":{"answers":"A,B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}

  • Urine ketones:

They are commonly present in DKA due to the breakdown of fats as an alternative energy source when insulin is insufficient. Ketones in urine are a hallmark sign of DKA.

Ketones may not be present in urine in HHS because insulin levels are sufficient to prevent excessive breakdown of fats. Therefore, urine ketones are more specific to DKA.

  • Creatinine greater than expected reference range

DKA: In DKA, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI), resulting in elevated creatinine levels.

HHS: Elevated creatinine can also occur in HHS due to severe dehydration and reduced kidney perfusion.

  • Blood glucose greater than expected reference range:

DKA: Extremely high blood glucose levels (typically >250 mg/dL) are a hallmark of DKA due to insulin deficiency and the resultant inability to transport glucose into cells for energy.

HHS: Similar to DKA, HHS is characterized by extremely high blood glucose levels (often >600 mg/dL). Therefore, elevated blood glucose levels are consistent with both DKA and HHS.

  • Skin turgor

DKA: Decreased skin turgor is indicative of dehydration, which is common in DKA due to excessive urination (polyuria) and fluid loss.

HHS: Similarly, decreased skin turgor can also be seen in HHS due to profound dehydration caused by excessive hyperglycemia and osmotic diuresis.

  • Blood pH greater than expected reference range

DKA: DKA is characterized by metabolic acidosis, leading to a decreased blood pH (<7.35). Therefore, a pH greater than expected reference range would not be typical for DKA.

HHS: HHS, on the other hand, is characterized by severe hyperglycemia without significant ketoacidosis. Patients with HHS can have a normal or even elevated blood pH (>7.45) due to compensation mechanisms and absence of significant acidosis.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

D. This practice is recommended as a safety precaution to minimize the risk of radioactive contamination following treatment with radioactive isotopes. It helps to ensure that any residual radioactivity is contained and not inadvertently spread, which is particularly important in shared or public bathrooms.

A The recommended distance is typically at least 1 meter (approximately 3 feet), although specific guidelines may vary depending on the type and dose of radiation used.

B. The use of cloth handkerchiefs versus disposable tissues does not significantly affect radiation safety. The focus should be on minimizing contamination and ensuring proper disposal of any tissues or materials that come into contact with bodily fluids.

C. While managing incontinence appropriately is important for comfort and hygiene, it is not directly related to radiation safety. Clients should use standard incontinence products as needed, ensuring proper disposal and hygiene practices.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. An increase in uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) is a hallmark finding in acute gout. Elevated uric acid levels predispose to the formation and deposition of urate crystals in joints, leading to the inflammatory response seen in gout attacks.

A While CK levels can increase in conditions affecting muscles (like rhabdomyolysis), it is not specifically associated with acute gout.

C Uric acid levels are typically elevated during acute gout attacks. This is because gout results from the deposition of urate crystals in the joints due to elevated serum uric acid levels. Therefore, during an acute gout attack, uric acid levels in the blood are often higher than normal.

D. Chloride is an electrolyte and its levels can vary based on hydration status, acid-base balance, and kidney function. It is not directly associated with acute gout, so its levels would not necessarily increase in this condition.

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