The nurse is caring for a client who was admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis and has rapid, deep respirations. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement?
A)Notify the client's health care provider.
B)Give the prescribed PRN lorazepam.
C)Start the prescribed PRN oxygen at 2-4 L/minute.
D)Encourage the client to take deep, slow breaths.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rapid, deep (Kussmaul's) respirations indicate a metabolic acidosis and the need for actions such as administration of sodium bicarbonate, which will require a prescription by the health care provider. Oxygen therapy is not indicated because there is no indication that the increased respiratory rate is related to hypoxemia. The respiratory pattern is compensatory, and the client will not be able to slow the respiratory rate. Lorazepam administration will slow the respiratory rate and increase the level of acidosis.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Was Admitted