Question

Cardiac monitoring is initiated for a patient in diabetic ketoacidosis. The nurse recognizes that this measure is important to identify:

1. Dysrhythmias resulting from hypokalemia.
2. Fluid overload resulting from aggressive fluid replacement.
3. The presence of hypovolemic shock related to osmotic diuresis.
4. Cardiovascular collapse resulting from the effects of excess glucose on cardiac cells.

Answer 1

Cardiac monitoring is important in diabetic ketoacidosis to identify dysrhythmias resulting from hypokalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. It is most commonly associated with type 1 diabetes but can also occur in individuals with type 2 diabetes, particularly during times of severe illness or stress. DKA is characterized by a triad of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), ketosis, and acidosis.

Cardiac monitoring is initiated for a patient in diabetic ketoacidosis to identify dysrhythmias resulting from hypokalemia. When the body is in a state of ketoacidosis, there is a depletion of electrolytes, including potassium, which can lead to abnormal heart rhythms. Monitoring the heart's electrical activity can detect and address any dysrhythmias that may arise.