Question

A nurse is reviewing laboratory values for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which of the following results should the nurse expect?

a. pH 7.32, PaCO2 36 mm Hg, HCO3- 14 mEq/L
b. pH 7.38, PaCO2 55 mm Hg, HCO3- 22 mEq/L
c. pH 7.44, PaCO2 40 mm Hg, HCO3- 24 mEq/L
d. pH 7.50, PaCO2 42 mm Hg, HCO3- 30 mEq/L

Answer 1

The nurse should expect a pH of 7.32, PaCO2 of 36 mm Hg, and HCO3- of 14 mEq/L for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should expect the following laboratory values for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA):

• pH 7.32
• PaCO2 36 mm Hg
• HCO3- 14 mEq/L

These values indicate a lower pH level, decreased PaCO2, and decreased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by an acidic pH, low bicarbonate levels, and a compensatory decrease in CO2 levels. Therefore, option a. is the expected result for a client with DKA.