Which of the following is not a sign of DKA?

Choice A reason: A low blood glucose level is not a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In fact, DKA is characterized by high blood glucose levels due to a lack of insulin, which leads to the breakdown of fats for energy and the production of ketones.

Choice B reason: Ketonuria, or the presence of ketones in the urine, is a sign of DKA. It occurs when the body breaks down fats for energy instead of using glucose, leading to the production of ketones, which are then excreted in the urine.

Choice C reason: Dehydration is a common sign of DKA. High blood glucose levels lead to increased urination, which causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes, resulting in dehydration.

Choice D reason: Kussmaul respirations are a sign of DKA. These are deep, labored breathing patterns that occur as the body attempts to compensate for the metabolic acidosis caused by high levels of ketones in the blood.

Choice A reason: Cirrhosis is a condition that affects the liver, not the kidneys. It is not related to nephropathy, which is kidney disease.

Choice B reason: Cardiac disease, while a common complication of diabetes, is not directly caused by nephropathy. Nephropathy primarily affects the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure, but it is not the leading cause of cardiac disease.

Choice C reason: Nephropathy in individuals with diabetes can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESRD), also known as end-stage renal disease. This is a serious condition where the kidneys are no longer able to function adequately to maintain life, often requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Choice D reason: Pulmonary disease affects the lungs and is not directly related to nephropathy. While diabetes can have complications that affect the lungs, nephropathy specifically targets the kidneys.