A nurse is caring for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following is the priority intervention by the nurse?
initiate a continuous IV insulin infusion
Begin bicarbonate continuous IV infusion
Check potassium levels
Administer 0.9% sodium chloride
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is the first priority. The priority intervention for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is to normalize blood glucose levels and reverse the ketoacidosis. Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is essential to rapidly lower the elevated blood glucose levels and counteract the metabolic acidosis associated with DKA.
Choice B reason:
Beginning a bicarbonate continuous IV infusion is generally not the priority in DKA management. While metabolic acidosis is a concern in DKA, insulin therapy and fluid resuscitation are typically the initial focus of treatment.

Choice C reason:
Checking potassium levels is important since potassium imbalances are common in DKA. However, while this is important, it is not the first priority. It's important to ensure that insulin therapy has been initiated before addressing potassium levels.
Choice D reason:
Administering 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) is a crucial part of DKA treatment but it is not the first priority as it helps correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. However, starting insulin therapy to address the underlying metabolic issue takes precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Capillary blood glucose level 164 mg/dl is appropriate. A capillary blood glucose level of 164 mg/dl is above the target range for blood glucose control. In a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), it's essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely, as hyperglycaemia can lead to complications. The nurse should intervene by notifying the healthcare provider and following the prescribed protocols for managing elevated blood glucose levels in a client with acute pancreatitis receiving TPN.
Choice B Reason:
Crackles in bilateral lower lobes is inappropriate. Crackles in the lungs could be indicative of fluid accumulation or inflammation, which can occur in various conditions. While it should be monitored, it may not require immediate intervention related to the TPN.
Choice C Reason:
WBC count 13,000/mm is inappropriate-. An elevated white blood cell count could be related to the acute pancreatitis itself or other factors. It might require further assessment and monitoring but may not be directly related to the TPN.
Choice D Reason:
Right upper quadrant pain is inappropriate- The client's right upper quadrant pain might be related to the acute pancreatitis or another cause, but it does not specifically indicate a need to intervene with the TPN at this moment.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I can give you a list of other people who had the same procedure." - This response might not address the client's concerns and could potentially violate privacy and confidentiality.
Choice B Reason:
"I can give you additional information about the procedure." Response B is an appropriate and supportive response. The client is expressing uncertainty about the mastectomy, so offering more information about the procedure can help the client make an informed decision. Providing accurate and detailed information allows the client to better understand their options and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
Choice C Reason:
"You will be cancer-free if you have the procedure." - Making a guarantee of being cancer-free after the procedure might be misleading and overly optimistic. While a mastectomy can treat cancer in some cases, it's important to provide realistic information.
Choice D Reason:
"You should get a second opinion regarding the procedure." - While seeking a second opinion can be valuable, this response might not directly address the client's immediate concerns about the procedure. Providing information first and then discussing the option of a second opinion might be a more balanced approach.

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