The nurse is caring for a patient who is admitted to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis. Which assessment finding indicates an attempt made by the patient's body to correct the pH?
A) The patient's respirations are very deep and rapid.
B) The patient's urine is dark and concentrated.
C) The patient's skin is pale, cool, and diaphoretic.
D) The patient is sleepy and difficult to arouse.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient with diabetic ketoacidosis is in a state of metabolic acidosis. The body will attempt to compensate for the acidosis by blowing off extra amounts of carbon dioxide through deep, rapid respirations. Since carbon dioxide is converted to carbonic acid, removal of carbon dioxide will help shift the body's pH to a less acidotic state.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Admitted