A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis secondary to an infection. Which of the following prescriptions is the highest priority?
Obtain blood for culture and sensitivity.
Initiate IV infusion of regular insulin.
Initiate 0.9% sodium chloride 1,000 mL IV at 500 mL/hr.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Obtain blood for culture and sensitivity: While identifying the infection is important for treatment, it does not address the immediate metabolic crisis of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This action is essential but secondary to stabilizing the client's current condition.
B) Initiate IV infusion of regular insulin: Administering insulin is critical in the management of DKA, as it helps to reduce blood glucose levels and halt the production of ketones, which are responsible for the acidosis. This intervention is vital for quickly correcting the metabolic derangement and stabilizing the patient.
C) Initiate 0.9% sodium chloride 1,000 mL IV at 500 mL/hr: While fluid replacement is important in the management of DKA to address dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, it is still not as immediately life-saving as starting insulin therapy. Fluid resuscitation typically follows the administration of insulin.
D) Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: This may be necessary for monitoring urine output and assessing kidney function, but it is not a priority intervention when addressing the acute complications of DKA. Insulin administration takes precedence in the immediate management plan.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Heart rate 60/min: A heart rate of 60 beats per minute is on the lower end of the normal range. While bradycardia can be concerning, it does not indicate the need for an increase in dopamine dosage specifically. The primary goal of dopamine administration in hypovolemic shock is to improve perfusion and blood pressure, rather than solely addressing heart rate.
B) Respiratory rate 14/min: A respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute is within the normal range for adults. This finding suggests that the client is not experiencing respiratory distress and does not warrant an increase in the dopamine dosage. The focus should be on hemodynamic parameters rather than respiratory rate in this context.
C) Oxygen saturation 95%: An oxygen saturation of 95% is considered acceptable and indicates adequate oxygenation. While maintaining oxygen saturation is important, this finding does not directly reflect the effectiveness of dopamine in improving hemodynamics. Therefore, it does not indicate the need for a dosage increase.
D) Blood pressure 90/50 mm Hg: A blood pressure reading of 90/50 mm Hg indicates hypotension and poor perfusion, which is a significant concern in a client with hypovolemic shock. An increase in dopamine dosage is warranted in this situation, as dopamine is administered to enhance cardiac output and improve blood pressure. Therefore, this finding strongly indicates the need to adjust the medication to ensure adequate hemodynamic support.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Epinephrine: Epinephrine is primarily used in emergencies for conditions such as anaphylaxis or cardiac arrest. It would not be indicated for managing thirst or urinary output
in this context.
B) Desmopressin: This medication is a synthetic vasopressin analog used to treat diabetes insipidus, which can result from brain injuries affecting the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Given the client's significant urinary output of 4,000 mL, which suggests possible diabetes insipidus, desmopressin is the most appropriate medication to address the excessive urination and thirst.
C) Nitroprusside: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to manage acute hypertension. It is not relevant to the symptoms described and would not help in managing thirst or urinary output issues.
D) Furosemide: Furosemide is a diuretic that would increase urinary output rather than decrease it. Since the client is already experiencing high urinary output, furosemide would not be appropriate.