A nurse caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has initiated the treatment plan. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances will the nurse be monitoring closely for this client?

Choice A reason: Hypocalcemia is not a primary concern in DKA. While calcium levels may be affected by acidosis or treatment, hypokalemia is more critical due to insulin-driven potassium shifts and diuresis, posing greater risk for arrhythmias, making this a less urgent electrolyte imbalance to monitor. Choice B reason: Hyponatremia may occur in DKA due to osmotic shifts from hyperglycemia, but it is less critical than hypokalemia. Potassium depletion from insulin therapy and diuresis poses immediate risks like arrhythmias, making hyponatremia a secondary concern in DKA management. Choice C reason: Hypokalemia is a critical electrolyte imbalance in DKA, as insulin therapy drives potassium into cells, and osmotic diuresis causes urinary loss. Low potassium (below 3.5 mEq/L) risks cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness, requiring close monitoring and replacement to ensure patient safety during treatment. Choice D reason: Hypomagnesemia may occur in DKA but is less common and critical than hypokalemia. Magnesium loss via diuresis is possible, but potassium’s role in cardiac and muscle function makes its monitoring more urgent to prevent life-threatening complications during DKA treatment.