Question

Which clinical manifestation indicates to the nurse a patient's hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HNKS) therapy needs to be adjusted?

A) Hypotension.
B) Acidosis.
C) Hypokalemia.
D) Inadequate reduction in serum glucose levels.

Answer 1

Inadequate reduction in serum glucose levels indicates that a patient's HNKS therapy needs adjustment, as HNKS treatment focuses on managing severe hyperglycemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A clinical manifestation that indicates a patient's hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HNKS) therapy needs to be adjusted is D) Inadequate reduction in serum glucose levels. HNKS is characterized by severe hyperglycemia without significant ketone body production. In this condition, insulin therapy is critical to reduce high serum glucose levels. If during treatment, the serum glucose levels do not adequately decrease, it may suggest that the therapeutic approach needs to be reassessed and possibly adjusted to more effectively manage the patient's condition.

Hypokalemia, or abnormally decreased blood levels of potassium, is another concern in the management of HNKS; however, it is not necessarily a direct indication to adjust HNKS therapy, but rather an associated electrolyte disturbance that needs correction. Monitoring and maintaining the right electrolyte balance is crucial during the treatment of HNKS due to the risk of dehydration and electrolyte loss.