The laboratory report of a client shows arterial blood pH of 7.6, blood glucose level of 650 mg/dL, and serum bicarbonate level of 17 mEq/L. Which conclusion does the nurse draw from these laboratory findings?

Question

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The client's laboratory report indicates hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS), characterized by a high blood glucose level (650 mg/dL) and a high blood pH (7.6), suggesting a state of severe hyperglycemia without the significant ketoacidosis typically seen in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The serum bicarbonate level of 17 mEq/L, while lower than normal, does not indicate the severe acidosis seen in DKA.

The Laboratory Report of a Client Shows Arterial Blood PH