Exhibits
For each assessment finding, click to specify if the assessment finding is consistent with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic-hyperosmolar state (HHS). Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.
Urine ketones
Creatinine greater than expected reference range
Blood glucose greater than expected reference range
Skin turgor
Blood pH greater than expected reference range
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A,B"},"D":{"answers":"A,B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}
- Urine ketones:
They are commonly present in DKA due to the breakdown of fats as an alternative energy source when insulin is insufficient. Ketones in urine are a hallmark sign of DKA.
Ketones may not be present in urine in HHS because insulin levels are sufficient to prevent excessive breakdown of fats. Therefore, urine ketones are more specific to DKA.
- Creatinine greater than expected reference range
DKA: In DKA, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI), resulting in elevated creatinine levels.
HHS: Elevated creatinine can also occur in HHS due to severe dehydration and reduced kidney perfusion.
- Blood glucose greater than expected reference range:
DKA: Extremely high blood glucose levels (typically >250 mg/dL) are a hallmark of DKA due to insulin deficiency and the resultant inability to transport glucose into cells for energy.
HHS: Similar to DKA, HHS is characterized by extremely high blood glucose levels (often >600 mg/dL). Therefore, elevated blood glucose levels are consistent with both DKA and HHS.
- Skin turgor
DKA: Decreased skin turgor is indicative of dehydration, which is common in DKA due to excessive urination (polyuria) and fluid loss.
HHS: Similarly, decreased skin turgor can also be seen in HHS due to profound dehydration caused by excessive hyperglycemia and osmotic diuresis.
- Blood pH greater than expected reference range
DKA: DKA is characterized by metabolic acidosis, leading to a decreased blood pH (<7.35). Therefore, a pH greater than expected reference range would not be typical for DKA.
HHS: HHS, on the other hand, is characterized by severe hyperglycemia without significant ketoacidosis. Patients with HHS can have a normal or even elevated blood pH (>7.45) due to compensation mechanisms and absence of significant acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The nurse should ensure that the client understands how to use the PCA device, including how to press the button to deliver a dose, the lockout interval (if applicable), and any safety features. Proper education empowers the client to manage their pain effectively while minimizing risks.
A The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory rate, depth, and effort more frequently than every 4 hours, particularly during the first 24 hours of PCA use
B. Family members should be educated on the purpose of the PCA device but should not be encouraged to operate it on behalf of the client.
C. The nurse should not administer an oral opioid for breakthrough pain as the client is already receiving morphine via PCA. Adjusting the PCA settings or providing additional IV opioid doses are more appropriate interventions for managing breakthrough pain in this context.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A A change in level of consciousness (LOC), such as confusion, lethargy, or loss of consciousness, can indicate worsening neurological status. It reflects impaired brain function due to increased pressure on brain tissues.
B. Pupillary changes, such as dilation or asymmetry, can occur due to pressure on the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III). Pupillary dilation can be a sign of increased ICP but typically occurs after other neurological changes.
C. Decorticate posturing indicates significant neurological impairment but typically appears after alterations in consciousness.
D. Cheyne-Stokes respirations indicate brainstem involvement and impaired respiratory control but are generally seen later in the progression of neurological deterioration.
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