The nurse is caring for a 22-year-old female patient who is brought to the emergency department with a new onset of blurred vision and headache. Use the chart to answer the questions.
The nurse recognizes the patient is demonstrating signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which findings support this recognition? Select all that apply.
(Select All that Apply.)
Acetone breath and respiratory pattern
Blurred vision and headache
Nausea and vomiting
History of type 1 DM Appendix removal at age 7
Weekend alcohol ingestion
Tachycardia and hypotension
Insulin pump turned off
Correct Answer : A,C,F,G
A. Acetone breath, characterized by a fruity or acetone-like odor on the patient's breath, is a classic sign of DKA. In addition, Kussmaul respirations, which are deep and labored breathing patterns, can occur as the body attempts to compensate for metabolic acidosis in DKA.
C. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of DKA and can occur due to metabolic acidosis, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal disturbances associated with the condition.
F. Tachycardia and hypotension are signs of hemodynamic instability, which can occur in severe cases of DKA due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the systemic effects of metabolic acidosis.
G. Turning off an insulin pump can lead to insulin deficiency, which is a precipitating factor for DKA, particularly in patients with type 1 diabetes who rely on continuous insulin therapy. This finding is consistent with the development of DKA.
B. Blurred vision and headache can be symptoms of DKA, although they are not specific to this condition. Elevated blood glucose levels and dehydration associated with DKA can lead to osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid shifts, which may manifest as headache and visual disturbances.
D. A history of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) predisposes the patient to DKA but the history of appendix removal at age 7 is not directly relevant to the current presentation of DKA.
E. Alcohol ingestion can contribute to the development of DKA by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and promoting ketoacidosis, particularly if the patient is not consuming adequate carbohydrates and insulin. However, it is not a direct sign of DKA.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. This patient is at high risk for hospital-acquired pneumonia. After a splenectomy (removal of the spleen), patients may experience pain and discomfort, which can make them reluctant to perform necessary activities like coughing and deep breathing. These activities are crucial for preventing lung complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia.
A. This patient is actively using an incentive spirometer, which is a device that encourages deep breathing and helps keep the lungs clear. This practice significantly reduces the risk of developing pneumonia by preventing atelectasis (collapse of part of the lung) and promoting lung expansion.
B. This patient is out of bed and eating, which indicates they are relatively mobile and maintaining normal respiratory function. Rhinoplasty, a surgical procedure on the nose, generally does not impair lung function or significantly increase the risk of pneumonia. Being active and upright further reduces the risk of HAP.
D. This patient is actively ambulating, which is highly beneficial for lung function and overall recovery. Walking and moving around helps to prevent respiratory complications, including pneumonia, by promoting lung expansion and circulation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The primary cause of peptic ulcer disease is infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. H. pylori infection is associated with the majority of peptic ulcers, particularly those in the stomach. This bacterium weakens the protective mucous lining of the stomach and duodenum, allowing stomach acid to damage the underlying tissue and form ulcers.
A. Spicy foods can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals with peptic ulcer disease but they are not a primary cause of the condition. Spicy foods can irritate the lining of the stomach or duodenum, potentially worsening symptoms, but they do not directly cause ulcers.
B. Stress was once thought to be a major factor in the development of peptic ulcers, but research has shown that while stress may aggravate symptoms, it is not a primary cause of peptic ulcer disease.
C. Excessive caffeine intake was also previously believed to be a major cause of peptic ulcer disease, but this is not entirely accurate. While caffeine can stimulate gastric acid secretion, leading to increased acidity in the stomach, it is not a primary cause of peptic ulcers.
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