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Which of the following patients is at the highest risk for hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome?

a. An 18-year-old college student with type 1 diabetes who exercises excessively
b. A 45-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes who forgets to take her insulin in the morning
c. A 75-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease who has recently started on insulin injections
d. An 83-year-old, long-term care resident with type 2 diabetes and advanced Alzheimer's disease who recently developed influenza

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The 75-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease who has recently started on insulin injections is at the highest risk for hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome due to the combination of factors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient who is at the highest risk for hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome is the 75-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease who has recently started on insulin injections.

This patient is at higher risk due to the combination of advanced age, having type 2 diabetes, and starting on insulin injections.

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS) is a serious condition that occurs when blood glucose levels become extremely high and cause severe dehydration.

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