The nurse is triaging a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who presented to the emergency department with increased lethargy and Kussmaul respirations. A blood glucose test reveals a level of 525 mg/dL (28 mmol/L). Which laboratory results are consistent with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Reference Ranges

Blood Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]

pH [7.35 to 7.45]

HCO3- [21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L)]

Arterial blood pH 7.5 and bicarbonate level 32 mEq/L (32 mmol/L).

Arterial blood pH 7.42 and bicarbonate level 18 mEq/L (18 mmol/L).

Arterial blood pH 7.25 and bicarbonate level 10 mEq/L (10 mmol/L).

Arterial blood pH 7.38 and bicarbonate level 29 mEq/L (29 mmol/L).

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis. The laboratory results consistent with DKA include:

Elevated blood glucose level: A blood glucose level of 525 mg/dL (28 mmol/L) is significantly elevated and consistent with DKA.

Low arterial blood pH: A decreased arterial blood pH indicates acidosis, which is characteristic of DKA. Normal arterial blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45.

Low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level: A low bicarbonate level indicates metabolic acidosis, which is also characteristic of DKA. Normal bicarbonate levels range from 21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L).

Among the options provided:

A) Arterial blood pH 7.5 and bicarbonate level 32 mEq/L (32 mmol/L):

This pH and bicarbonate level are indicative of alkalosis, which is not consistent with DKA.

B) Arterial blood pH 7.42 and bicarbonate level 18 mEq/L (18 mmol/L):

This pH is within the normal range, and the bicarbonate level is slightly decreased but not indicative of metabolic acidosis consistent with DKA.

C) Arterial blood pH 7.25 and bicarbonate level 10 mEq/L (10 mmol/L):

Correct. This pH is decreased, indicating acidosis, and the bicarbonate level is significantly below the normal range, consistent with metabolic acidosis characteristic of DKA.

D) Arterial blood pH 7.38 and bicarbonate level 29 mEq/L (29 mmol/L):

While the pH is within the normal range, the bicarbonate level is elevated, which is not consistent with metabolic acidosis seen in DKA.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Myocardial infarction one year ago:

A myocardial infarction (MI) that occurred one year ago is not directly related to the current acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While a history of MI may have implications for the client's overall cardiovascular health and management, it is not the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results.

B. Occasional use of antacids:

Occasional use of antacids is unlikely to cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. Antacids primarily work by neutralizing gastric acid and are not typically associated with significant alterations in acid-base status, especially when used intermittently.

C. Chronic renal insufficiency:

Chronic renal insufficiency is the most likely cause of the acid-base imbalance indicated by the laboratory results. A low hemoglobin level suggests anemia, which can occur in chronic kidney disease due to decreased erythropoietin production. An elevated creatinine clearance indicates impaired kidney function, as the kidneys are clearing creatinine at a faster rate than normal. Decreased urine specific gravity suggests the kidneys' inability to concentrate urine properly, which is a common finding in renal insufficiency. Renal insufficiency can lead to metabolic acidosis due to the kidneys' decreased ability to excrete acid and regulate bicarbonate levels.

D. Shortness of breath with exertion:

Shortness of breath with exertion, a symptom commonly seen in COPD exacerbations, is unlikely to directly cause the acid-base imbalance described in the scenario. While respiratory distress can lead to respiratory acidosis, which is characterized by elevated carbon dioxide levels and decreased pH, the laboratory results indicate metabolic rather than respiratory acidosis.

A. Chronic kidney disease. B. Diabetic retinopathy. C. Peripheral neuropathy. D. Hypertension.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Chronic kidney disease:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), but it typically develops over time due to long-standing hyperglycemia and its effects on the kidneys. While CKD can lead to various complications such as electrolyte imbalances and cardiovascular disease, it is not directly associated with the development of gangrenous toes.

B. Diabetic retinopathy:

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes, specifically the retina. It results from damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged hyperglycemia. While diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision impairment and blindness if left untreated, it is not directly associated with the development of gangrenous toes.

C. Peripheral neuropathy:

Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that results from damage to the peripheral nerves due to prolonged hyperglycemia. It can lead to sensory, motor, and autonomic nerve dysfunction. Peripheral neuropathy contributes to the development of complications such as diabetic foot ulcers and Charcot arthropathy, which can ultimately lead to gangrene if not properly managed.

D. Hypertension:

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common comorbidity in individuals with diabetes mellitus. While hypertension can exacerbate complications such as diabetic nephropathy and cardiovascular disease, it is not directly associated with the development of gangrenous toes.

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