Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following lab findings should the nurse expect?

a. Negative urine ketones
b. BUN 32 mg/dL
c. pH 7.43
d. HCO3- 23 mEq/L

Answer 1

Lab findings that a nurse should expect when caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis include positive urine ketones, elevated BUN levels, decreased blood pH, and decreased bicarbonate levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis should expect certain lab findings:

1. Positive urine ketones: Diabetic ketoacidosis leads to the accumulation of ketone bodies, such as acetoacetic acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and acetone. These ketone bodies are excreted in the urine and can be detected through a test known as Rothera's test.
2. BUN 32 mg/dL: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels can rise in diabetic ketoacidosis due to dehydration and increased breakdown of muscle protein.
3. pH 7.43: Diabetic ketoacidosis decreases the normal pH of blood, which is typically between 7.35 and 7.45. The decrease in pH is caused by the accumulation of ketone bodies, which are acids.
4. HCO3- 23 mEq/L: Diabetic ketoacidosis leads to a decrease in the level of bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood. Bicarbonate is important for maintaining the acid-base balance in the body.