You are called to an outpatient clinic to transfer a 39-year-old male patient in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) to an acute-care hospital. When assessing the patient, which one of the following signs or symptoms would you expect to find?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fruity or acetone odor on his breath is a classic sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), caused by the buildup of ketones in the bloodstream. Slow and shallow respirations are not commonly associated with DKA. A slow heart rate is also not typically seen in DKA, and high blood pressure is actually a more common finding. A blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL is too low for DKA, which is typically associated with hyperglycemia.

You Are Called to an Outpatient Clinic to Transfer a 39-Year-Old