Final answer:
The nurse should expect to observe increased urination as a key symptom of ketoacidosis in a client with gestational diabetes. Other symptoms related to ketoacidosis can include dry skin, flushed face, and fruity breath, but not typically sweating, dizziness, or loose stools directly. Treatment includes managing blood sugar levels with sugar intake and insulin administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse assessing a client who has gestational diabetes and ketoacidosis should expect to observe several manifestations. The presence of ketoacidosis indicates that there is an excessive accumulation of ketone bodies, which can present with increased urination due to the diuretic effect of ketones and glucose in the urine. Additionally, other symptoms related to ketoacidosis and the high blood sugar levels can include dry skin, a flushed face, and fruit-smelling breath due to acetone. However, sweating, dizziness, and loose stools are not typically direct symptoms of ketoacidosis, but dizziness and sweating may be associated with other complications or stress on the body.
Moreover, the patient may experience deep, rapid breathing as the body tries to correct the acid-base balance disrupted by the excess ketones. Treatment involves the ingestion or injection of sugar and the administration of insulin to manage blood sugar levels and prevent a diabetic coma, which is a serious and potentially fatal complication of ketoacidosis.