A nurse is collecting data from a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Elevated blood pressure: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA. typically does not cause elevated blood pressure. In fact, due to dehydration from increased urination, clients often present with hypotension or normal blood pressure, rather than hypertension. B. Bounding pulse: A bounding pulse is not commonly associated with DKA. It may be seen with conditions such as fever or sepsis, but DKA is more likely to cause a weak or thready pulse due to fluid volume deficit and dehydration. C. Fruity breath odor: A fruity or acetone-like breath odor is a hallmark sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. This is caused by the presence of ketones in the blood, which are produced as the body breaks down fat for energy when glucose is unavailable. D. Clammy skin: Clammy skin is more likely to be associated with hypoglycemia, not DKA. In DKA, the skin is typically dry due to dehydration, and the client may appear flushed, not clammy.