Identify the initial action that the nurse should take to treat an acute episode of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in a client with type I, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
A)Administer 50 units of regular insulin intravenously.
B)Start an intravenous (IV) line of 0.45% normal saline at 150 mL per hour.
C)Administer 2 amps of sodium bicarbonate.
D)Ask the client if he has taken his insulin that morning.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The initial action in treating an acute episode of DKA is to start an IV line of 0.45% normal saline at 150 mL per hour. This will help to rehydrate the client and correct any electrolyte imbalances that have occurred as a result of the DKA. Administration of insulin should follow, but it is important to rehydrate the client first to avoid worsening electrolyte imbalances. Sodium bicarbonate may be administered if the client's pH remains low despite correction of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Asking if the client has taken his insulin is important information to gather, but it is not the initial action to take in treating DKA.

Identify the Initial Action That the Nurse Should Take to Treat