A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of type 1 diabetes?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Hypernatremia: While mild hypernatremia can occur in severe dehydration, it is not a defining or consistent feature of type 1 diabetes. Electrolyte imbalances may vary depending on hydration and glucose levels. B. Decreased serum osmolality: In type 1 diabetes, serum osmolality is typically increased due to hyperglycemia and the osmotic effect of glucose in the bloodstream, which draws water out of cells and into the vascular space. A decrease would be inconsistent with the expected metabolic state. C. Ketones in the urine: Ketones in the urine are a hallmark of type 1 diabetes, especially when insulin is deficient. Without insulin, the body breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones as a byproduct, which can be detected in the urine during diabetic ketoacidosis. D. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is a complication of diabetes management, often resulting from too much insulin or missed meals. It is not a presenting manifestation of newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, which typically presents with hyperglycemia and related symptoms.