Question

A nurse is caring for a school age child who has diabetes mellitus and was admitted with a dx. of diabetic keto acidosis. When performing the respiratory assessment, which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Answer 1

In a case of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in a child, a nurse should expect to find Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing), fruity-smelling breath due to acetone, and possibly other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Expected Respiratory Findings in Diabetic Ketoacidosis

A school-aged child admitted with a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is likely to present with specific symptoms related to their respiratory system. The nurse can expect to find signs of Kussmaul respirations, which are deep, rapid breaths. This type of breathing is the body's compensatory mechanism to reduce the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood and alleviate acidosis. Additionally, the child may have a fruity-smelling breath due to the exhalation of acetone, which is a result of ketone bodies breaking down. Moreover, the presence of other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain may also be noted during assessment. These symptoms are indicative of an underlying ketoacidosis, and thus the nurse should be prepared to intervene as necessary to manage these signs and prevent progression to diabetic coma.