A nurse caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has initiated the treatment plan. Which of the following electrolyte imbalance will the nurse be monitoring closely for this client?
Hypocalcemia
Hyponatremia
Hypokalemia
Hypomagnesemia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypocalcemia is not a primary concern in DKA treatment.
B. Hyponatremia can occur but is less immediately critical than potassium imbalance.
C. During treatment of DKA, insulin administration drives potassium into cells, potentially causing dangerous hypokalemia, so close monitoring of potassium levels is essential.
D. Hypomagnesemia is less common and not the primary focus during DKA management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"C"},"F":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
Anticipated:
Obtain ABGs: This is anticipated because arterial blood gases help evaluate oxygenation and acid-base status. Since the client has a low O₂ saturation (85%) and is showing signs of respiratory distress, ABGs are essential for guiding oxygen therapy and further interventions.
Prepare for insertion of a chest tube: A chest tube is the primary treatment for a pneumothorax. It allows air to escape the pleural space and re-expand the lung. The client's absent breath sounds and labored breathing indicate a significant air accumulation that needs urgent management.
Obtain intravenous access: IV access is essential to administer fluids, analgesics, or emergency medications, especially in a hypotensive client (BP 92/64 mm Hg) showing signs of shock and respiratory compromise.
Computed tomography (CT) of the chest: A CT scan may be ordered to assess the extent of lung injury or to evaluate for concurrent thoracic trauma. It provides more detailed imaging than a chest x-ray and is appropriate once the client is stabilized.
Non-essential:
Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is used to remove fluid from the pleural space, such as in pleural effusion, not air, as in pneumothorax. Performing thoracentesis in this case could worsen the condition or lead to further complications.
Contraindicated:
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): PFTs are not appropriate in this scenario. They require the client to perform forced breathing maneuvers, which are unsafe and impractical for someone in acute respiratory distress with a pneumothorax.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. In the compensatory stage of shock, blood pressure is usually maintained within normal limits due to vasoconstriction and increased cardiac output.
B. A heart rate of 160/min is excessively high and more typical of the progressive stage of shock.
C. Hypokalemia is not a typical finding specific to the compensatory stage of shock.
D. Mottled skin usually occurs in the later stages of shock due to poor perfusion, not during compensation.
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