A client in diabetic ketoacidosis has an elevated serum potassium ion (K⁺) level. The nurse explains to the client that this is caused by A) bicarbonate loss in the urine instead of K+ loss. B) binding of H+ to blood proteins. C) increased reabsorption of K+ in the distal tubule of the nephron. D) secretion by the kidneys of H⁺ and retention of K+.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In cases of serum H⁺ excess, more H⁺ is secreted by renal tubular cells, whereas K⁺ is retained, promoting hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia also occurs because H⁺ and K⁺ exchange places in an attempt to maintain electroneutrality, with more H⁺ entering cells and more K⁺ leaving cells.

A Client in Diabetic Ketoacidosis Has an Elevated Serum Potassium