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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Listening to the client's bowel sounds should not be implemented. While assessing bowel sounds is important, it is not the highest priority in this situation. The client's low serum potassium level indicates the potential for serious cardiac arrhythmias, so actions related to monitoring and addressing this electrolyte imbalance are more critical.
Choice B reason:
Initiate cardiac monitoring for the client is the correct answer. A serum potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is significantly low and can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Initiating cardiac monitoring is crucial to assess the client's heart rhythm and ensure that any potential abnormalities are identified promptly.
Choice C reason:
Check the client's hand grasps should not be implemented. Assessing the client's hand grasps can provide information about muscle strength, but it is not the immediate priority when the client has a critically low potassium level.
Choice D reason:
Administer an IV potassium drip should not be implemented. Administering IV potassium is important for correcting the potassium imbalance, but the priority is to assess and monitor the client's cardiac status first. Rapid administration of potassium can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, so it's important to ensure the heart's stability through cardiac monitoring before administering potassium.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
May operate a motor vehicle when no longer taking analgesics is appropriate. This option could still potentially be a concern. While the patient might not be taking analgesics, the halo device's restrictions on neck movement could still impact their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. So, this option might still need clarification with the provider.
Choice B reason:
Increase Intake of fibre-rich foods. This option is not related to the use of a halo device. Increasing fibber intake is generally a positive dietary recommendation, and it doesn't directly pertain to the halo device or the patient's discharge instructions.
Choice C reason:
May place a small pillow under the head when sleeping. This option is incorrect because using a small pillow under the head when sleeping is a common practice for patients with halo devices. It helps to maintain proper alignment and reduce discomfort while sleeping.
Choice D reason:
Take tub baths instead of showers. This option is incorrect because taking tub baths instead of showers is a common recommendation for patients with halo devices. The halo device must be kept dry to prevent complications. Showering might increase the risk of water seeping into the halo vest, whereas taking a tub bath could help in maintaining dryness around the device.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.