Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has DKA. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client's condition is improving?

A) Decreased blood glucose levels.
B) Elevated ketone levels.
C) Respiratory alkalosis.
D) Metabolic acidosis.

Answer 1

In the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), decreased blood glucose levels indicate that the patient's condition is improving. Elevated ketone levels, respiratory alkalosis, and metabolic acidosis are signs of uncontrolled DKA.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition that indicates a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is showing improvement is decreased blood glucose levels. DKA is characterized by high blood glucose levels, the overproduction of ketone bodies, and decreased blood pH due to the presence of acidic ketone bodies such as acetoacetic acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and acetone. Effective treatment typically leads to a reduction in blood glucose levels, which signals improved cellular uptake of glucose and a decrease in the production of ketone bodies, contributing to a restoration of normal acid-base balance.

Elevated ketone levels, respiratory alkalosis, and metabolic acidosis are all indicators of worsening or uncontrolled DKA. Therefore, among the provided options, A) Decreased blood glucose levels would indicate improvement in DKA.