After teaching a group of students about diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNKS), the instructor determines that additional teaching is needed when the students identify which of the following as characteristic of HHNKS?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevated serum potassium levels are more characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) rather than hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNKS). In HHNKS, severe hyperglycemia leads to osmotic diuresis, dehydration, and concentration of blood components, including potassium, but the total body potassium is often depleted due to urinary losses, not elevated in the serum.

After Teaching a Group of Students About Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)