Final answer:
In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), increased blood glucose levels and the production of ketone bodies lead to a decrease in blood pH level below the normal range of 7.35-7.45, indicating acidosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and acute complication of diabetes mellitus that typically occurs in individuals with poorly controlled blood sugar levels. When there is insufficient insulin activity, the cells in the body are unable to use glucose for energy efficiently, leading to the breakdown of fatty acids for energy. This process results in the production of ketone bodies, such as acetoacetic acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and acetone—substances that increase the acidity of the blood. As a result, the blood pH level becomes lower than the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating an acidic environment, hence the presence of acidosis. The correct laboratory findings for a patient with DKA would include increased blood glucose levels and not decreased ketone levels, elevated pH levels, or normal bicarbonate levels. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 'a. Increased blood glucose levels'.