Question

A nurse is an emergency department is assessing a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the client has diabetic ketoacidosis?

A: Seizure activity
B: Nervousness
C: Blood glucose 396 mg/dL
D: Serum pH 7.52

Answer 1

A nurse should recognize a B: Blood glucose level of 396 mg/dL as an indication of diabetic ketoacidosis in a client with type 1 diabetes, characterized by high blood glucose and acidity in the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify C: Blood glucose 396 mg/dL as an indication that the client has diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body starts breaking down fats at an abnormal rate, producing ketones, which cause the blood to become acidic. One of the key clinical signs of DKA is a high blood glucose level, typically over 250 mg/dL. Additionally, acid-base balance issues such as a blood pH lower than normal (7.35-7.45) is a hallmark of DKA, not a higher pH level. Symptoms of DKA can include deep, rapid breathing; fruity-smelling breath due to acetone exhalation; dry skin and mouth; and nausea or vomiting. Treatment involves insulin therapy, fluid replacement, and electrolyte management.