Final answer:
A patient with an infection not managing their type 2 diabetes by not checking blood glucose and skipping Metformin doses is most at risk for Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNS). The lack of insulin activity in their body can lead to the utilization of fats for energy, causing an overproduction of acidic ketone bodies and leading to Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), which is dangerous due to the resulting blood acidity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient with an infection who is not checking their blood glucose or regularly taking Metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, is most at risk for Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNS). However, given that Metformin is specifically mentioned, and ketoacidosis is typically more associated with type 1 diabetes, the condition they would be less likely to be at risk for compared to a patient not using insulin or oral medications properly would be Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is characterized by a dangerous build-up of ketones, which are acidic compounds, and high blood sugar levels; this disrupts the acid-base balance, causing the blood to become too acidic.
When cells don't receive enough glucose due to inadequate insulin, they start breaking down fats for energy, leading to the overproduction of ketone bodies (acetoacetic acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and acetone). This excess acid in the blood stream can cause significant health problems as the low pH affects various bodily functions, particularly in the kidneys and the brain, which can lead to a life-threatening situation if not treated promptly with insulin and fluids.