what are the early signs of diabetic ketoacidosis
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023

1. What are the early signs of diabetic ketoacidosis?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Excessive thirst and fruity breath odor. Diabetic ketoacidosis presents with these early signs due to ketone buildup in the body. Choice B, weight loss and increased urination, are more characteristic of uncontrolled diabetes but not specific to diabetic ketoacidosis. Choice C, nausea and vomiting, can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis but are not as early or specific as excessive thirst and fruity breath odor. Choice D, hypoglycemia and fatigue, are not typical signs of diabetic ketoacidosis; rather, diabetic ketoacidosis usually presents with hyperglycemia.

2. Which instruction should be emphasized for a client with diabetes being discharged?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Take insulin before meals as prescribed' because it is crucial for managing blood glucose levels effectively in clients with diabetes. Insulin helps the body utilize glucose from the food consumed, preventing high blood sugar levels. Checking blood sugar once daily (Choice A) may not be sufficient for proper management, as blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day. Monitoring glucose levels weekly (Choice C) is too infrequent and may lead to missed opportunities for timely intervention. Eating carbohydrate-rich meals to maintain glucose levels (Choice D) is not appropriate advice, as it can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, especially without the proper insulin dosage.

3. What is the first step in assessing a patient with suspected stroke?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to call for emergency assistance (Option D) when assessing a patient with suspected stroke. Time is crucial in stroke management, and activating emergency services promptly can ensure timely access to specialized care such as stroke units and treatments like thrombolytic therapy. Checking for facial droop (Option A), assessing speech clarity (Option B), and performing a neurological assessment (Option C) are important steps in evaluating a stroke but should follow the immediate action of calling for emergency assistance. These initial assessments can help confirm the suspicion of a stroke and provide valuable information to healthcare providers when they arrive. However, the priority is to ensure the patient receives appropriate care without delay by activating emergency services.

4. A nurse is caring for a client receiving IV fluids. Which of the following should the nurse do upon noticing phlebitis at the IV site?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Upon noticing phlebitis at the IV site, the nurse should remove the IV catheter and restart it in another location. Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, and leaving the IV catheter in place can lead to further complications such as infection. Applying a cold compress (Choice A) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Notifying the provider immediately (Choice B) is important, but the immediate action to prevent complications is to remove the IV catheter. Monitoring the site for signs of infection (Choice D) is necessary, but the priority action is to remove and reinsert the IV catheter to prevent worsening of the phlebitis.

5. What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with chest pain?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin is the priority intervention for a patient with chest pain because it helps relieve chest pain by dilating coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle. Assessing pain level, monitoring vital signs, and providing oxygen therapy are important interventions as well, but administering nitroglycerin takes precedence in addressing the immediate symptom of chest pain and potential cardiac ischemia.

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