A 28-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband for increasing confusion over the past 12 hours. Her husband reports that she has a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus. She has had polyuria and excessive thirst for one day. She has not been able to refill her home insulin supply over the last 3 days because of insurance issues. Her temperature is 38.9°C (102.0°F), pulse is 94/min, respirations are 24/min, and blood pressure is 115/60 mm Hg . Physical examination shows tachycardia and dry mucous membranes. Laboratory results are as follows: Which of the following electrolyte findings would most likely be seen in this patient?

Question

A 28-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband for increasing confusion over the past 12 hours. Her husband reports that she has a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus. She has had polyuria and excessive thirst for one day. She has not been able to refill her home insulin supply over the last 3 days because of insurance issues. Her temperature is 38.9°C (102.0°F), pulse is 94/min, respirations are 24/min, and blood pressure is 115/60 mm Hg .  Physical examination shows tachycardia and dry mucous membranes.  Laboratory results are as follows:  Which of the following electrolyte findings would most likely be seen in this patient?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Most patients with diabetic ketoacidosis have normal to increased serum potassium levels despite a total body potassium deficit.  Replacement of potassium is a crucial step in the management of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis.

A 28-Year-Old Woman Is Brought to the Emergency Department by Her