A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following is the priority intervention by the nurse?
Check potassium levels.
Administer 0.9% sodium chloride.
Begin bicarbonate continuous IV infusion.
Initiate a continuous IV insulin infusion.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Checking potassium levels is important in the management of DKA, but it is not the priority intervention. Potassium levels should be monitored closely, as insulin therapy can lower potassium levels, but the first step in treatment is fluid resuscitation.
B. Administering 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) is the priority intervention in DKA. This helps to correct dehydration and restore circulatory volume, which is critical in stabilizing the client. Fluid replacement is the first step in managing DKA before insulin is administered.
C. Beginning bicarbonate continuous IV infusion is typically not recommended unless the pH is extremely low (below 6.9). The primary treatment in DKA is fluid and insulin therapy, and bicarbonate is used only in severe cases of acidosis.
D. Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is essential in treating DKA, but it should be done after initial fluid resuscitation. Insulin therapy lowers blood glucose and helps to resolve ketosis, but fluid replacement is the first priority to stabilize the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Clients in protective isolation require more frequent temperature monitoring due to their high risk for infection. Monitoring once every 6 hours may not be sufficient to detect early signs of infection.
B. An N95 respirator is necessary for airborne precautions (e.g., tuberculosis) but is not required for protective isolation unless indicated for another reason.
C. While disposable plates and utensils may be used, they are not a primary requirement for infection prevention in protective isolation. Properly cleaned and sanitized utensils are generally safe.
D. Protective isolation requires positive-pressure airflow to prevent airborne pathogens from entering the client’s room, reducing the risk of infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A 25-gauge saline lock is too small for administering fresh frozen plasma. Plasma should be transfused through a larger gauge catheter (typically 18 or 20 gauge) to ensure proper flow and minimize complications.
B. Fresh frozen plasma should be administered as soon as possible after thawing, typically within 30 minutes to 1 hour, to maintain its efficacy and avoid bacterial growth.
C. Fresh frozen plasma should not be transfused over 4 hours. It is usually given within 1 to 2 hours to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure proper clotting factor effectiveness.
D. Holding the transfusion if the client is actively bleeding is not appropriate. In fact, fresh frozen plasma is often administered to clients who are actively bleeding or who have clotting disorders to replace deficient clotting factors.
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