The diabetic ketoacidosis associated with insulin deficiency is related to:
Extracellular hyperglycemia
Hypoglycemia
Use of fat and protein as an energy source
Increased cellular metabolism of glucose
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Extracellular hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels outside the cells. While hyperglycemia is a common feature of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), it is not the direct cause of the condition. DKA occurs when the body cannot use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin, leading to the breakdown of fat and protein for energy, which produces ketones and causes acidosis.
Choice B Reason:
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not associated with diabetic ketoacidosis. In fact, DKA is characterized by high blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia is a separate condition that can occur in individuals with diabetes, particularly if they take too much insulin or skip meals.
Choice C Reason:
The use of fat and protein as an energy source is the primary mechanism behind diabetic ketoacidosis. When insulin is deficient, the body cannot utilize glucose for energy. As a result, it breaks down fat and protein to produce energy. This process generates ketones, which are acidic and lead to the development of ketoacidosis.

Choice D Reason:
Increased cellular metabolism of glucose is not related to diabetic ketoacidosis. In DKA, the problem is that cells cannot use glucose effectively due to a lack of insulin. Instead, the body resorts to breaking down fat and protein for energy, leading to the production of ketones and acidosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Walnuts are a source of protein and contain phenylalanine, an amino acid that individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) must limit in their diet. While nuts can be a healthy snack for most people, they are not suitable for those with PKU due to their high phenylalanine content. Therefore, walnuts are not the best choice for children with PKU.
Choice B reason:
Cow’s milk is another source of protein and contains significant amounts of phenylalanine. Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are generally high in protein and should be avoided by individuals with PKU. Consuming cow’s milk can lead to elevated levels of phenylalanine in the blood, which can be harmful to children with PKU.
Choice C reason:
Bananas are a fruit that contains very low levels of phenylalanine. Fruits and vegetables are generally safe for individuals with PKU as they are low in protein and phenylalanine. Bananas, in particular, are a good option for children with PKU as they provide essential nutrients without contributing to high phenylalanine levels.
Choice D reason:
Diet soda with aspartame should be avoided by individuals with PKU because aspartame is an artificial sweetener that contains phenylalanine. Consuming products with aspartame can lead to an increase in phenylalanine levels in the blood, which can be harmful to those with PKU. Therefore, diet soda with aspartame is not a suitable choice for children with PKU.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is d) Central nervous system.
Choice A reason:
The musculoskeletal system is not primarily affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that primarily impacts the brain and cognitive functions. While muscle weakness can occur due to overall health deterioration, it is not the primary system affected by phenylalanine toxicity.
Choice B reason:
The renal system is not the main target of phenylalanine toxicity. Although the kidneys play a role in filtering blood and excreting waste, the toxic effects of phenylalanine accumulation are more pronounced in the brain. Therefore, the renal system is not the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels.
Choice C reason:
The GI system, or gastrointestinal system, is not the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. While dietary management is crucial for individuals with PKU to control phenylalanine intake, the toxic effects are primarily seen in the brain. The GI system is involved in the absorption and digestion of nutrients, but it is not the main system impacted by phenylalanine toxicity.
Choice D reason:
The central nervous system (CNS) is the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. Phenylketonuria (PKU) leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the brain, causing severe brain damage and cognitive impairments. High levels of phenylalanine can disrupt neurotransmitter synthesis and brain development, leading to intellectual disabilities and other neurological issues. Therefore, the CNS is the main system impacted by phenylalanine toxicity.
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