Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which finding is characteristic of diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Which finding is characteristic of diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA)?
- Normal blood pH
- Increased urine output
- Prolonged respiratory rate
- Elevated blood glucose level and low plasma bicarbonate (correct)
What is a typical respiratory finding in a patient with DKA?
What is a typical respiratory finding in a patient with DKA?
- Decreased respiratory rate
- Hypoventilation
- Kussmaul breathing pattern (correct)
- Normal respiratory rhythm
What acid-base imbalance is likely observed in DKA?
What acid-base imbalance is likely observed in DKA?
- Respiratory acidosis
- Respiratory alkalosis
- Metabolic alkalosis
- Metabolic acidosis (correct)
Which of the following symptoms is least likely in DKA?
Which of the following symptoms is least likely in DKA?
Which laboratory finding would be inappropriate to expect in a patient with DKA?
Which laboratory finding would be inappropriate to expect in a patient with DKA?
Flashcards
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?
A condition where the body produces excess ketones due to a lack of insulin resulting in high blood sugar and metabolic acidosis.
What is the blood glucose level in DKA?
What is the blood glucose level in DKA?
High blood glucose level usually exceeding 250 mg/dL.
What happens to bicarbonate levels in DKA?
What happens to bicarbonate levels in DKA?
A significant drop in the bicarbonate level in the blood, usually below 15 mmol/L. Bicarbonate is a buffer that helps control the acid-base balance.
What happens to the pH in DKA?
What happens to the pH in DKA?
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What clinical manifestation may occur in DKA?
What clinical manifestation may occur in DKA?
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Study Notes
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) Diagnostic Findings
- Elevated blood glucose and low plasma bicarbonate is a key finding confirming DKA. High blood glucose levels and low bicarbonate levels are characteristic of DKA.
- Decreased respiration and decreased pH are signs of DKA. The body attempts to compensate for the acidosis, leading to rapid breathing (Kussmaul respirations). Acidosis results in a decrease in pH.
- Coma or altered mental status can occur in severe cases of DKA but isn't a definitive diagnostic finding. Other symptoms/findings are more critical in making a diagnosis
- Decreased urine output is not a specific sign of DKA; it could result from several factors.
- Decreased bicarbonate and increased plasma pH is incorrect. DKA involves decreased bicarbonate, not increased plasma pH.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the diagnostic findings of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). This quiz covers key indicators such as blood glucose levels, pH, and respiratory signs. Understand the critical factors that confirm DKA diagnosis and differentiate it from other conditions.
