Exhibits
The nurse is caring for the client in the ED. The nurse understands that the client is at risk of developing which of the following complications? Select all that apply.
Cerebral edema
Septic shock
Cardiac arrhythmias
Renal failure
Hypotension
Respiratory alkalosis
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
A. This is a serious complication in DKA, particularly in children, where the shift in osmolality during treatment can lead to fluid shifts into the brain. It can present with neurological deterioration, headache, altered mental status, and even coma.
B. Septic shock
While infection can precipitate DKA, septic shock itself is not a direct complication of DKA. However, DKA can predispose patients to infections due to impaired immune function, dehydration, and hyperglycemia.
C. Cardiac arrhythmias
Electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia or hyperkalemia (depending on treatment phase), can predispose individuals with DKA to cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular arrhythmias (e.g., ventricular tachycardia) or atrial fibrillation.
D. Renal failure
Acute kidney injury (AKI) can occur due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the direct effects of acidosis. However, with prompt and appropriate treatment, renal function typically recovers.
E. Hypotension
Dehydration and volume depletion are common in DKA due to osmotic diuresis and fluid loss. This can lead to hypovolemic shock and hypotension if not adequately managed with fluid resuscitation.
F Respiratory alkalosis
DKA is associated with metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis. The body compensates for acidosis by increasing respiratory rate (Kussmaul respirations) to blow off CO2 and normalize pH, but this does not lead to respiratory alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A This response addresses a potential cause of exercise-induced hypoglycemia. Clients with type 1 diabetes often need to adjust their insulin dose or carbohydrate intake before exercise to prevent hypoglycemia. Asking about insulin adjustment is relevant to assess whether the client took appropriate precautions.
B. While exercise can cause fatigue, feeling diaphoretic, having palpitations, and extreme exhaustion are not normal responses after exercise, especially for someone with type 1 diabetes. This response does not address the potential cause of the symptoms.
C. This response addresses the importance of carbohydrate intake post-exercise to prevent or treat hypoglycemia. It encourages the client to reflect on their dietary choices following exercise, which can impact blood glucose levels.
D. While establishing a routine for exercise is beneficial for managing diabetes, this response does not address the immediate concern of hypoglycemia or provide guidance on managing the client's current symptoms.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F","G"]
Explanation
Blood glucose 310 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL)
The initial blood glucose level was 468 mg/dL, indicating severe hyperglycemia, likely due to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The decrease to 310 mg/dL suggests that the insulin therapy is starting to bring the blood glucose levels down towards normal range. This reduction is a positive sign of response to treatment.
Client urinating 100 mL/hour
This indicates improved kidney function compared to the initial presentation where the client reported frequent urination and nausea. Adequate urine output (typically more than 30 mL/hour) is crucial in managing DKA as it signifies improved renal perfusion and clearance of ketones and glucose from the blood.
Client is tolerating soft diet and oral fluids
This indicates improvement in gastrointestinal function and resolution of nausea, which is consistent with the ondansetron administration for nausea control. It also suggests that the client's appetite and overall condition are improving.
Bilateral pedal pulses 2+
Initially, the pulses were 1+, indicating poorer peripheral perfusion. Bilateral pedal pulses becoming 2+ suggest improved circulation, likely due to the correction of acidosis and hydration status with fluid and electrolyte
Blood pressure
The improvement in the blood pressure indicates that the client is out of the dehydration state caused by DKA.
Pulse rate
Resolution of tachycardia is a good indicator of improved hydration status
Respiratory rate
The decrease in respiratory rate is an indicator of improving acidosis and resolution of Kussmaul breathing common in DKA.
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