The nurse is triaging a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus who presented to the emergency department with increased lethargy and Kussmaul respirations. A blood glucose test reveals a level of 525 mg/dL (28 mmol/L). Which laboratory results are consistent with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)? Reference Ranges Blood Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)] pH [7.35 to 7.45] HCO3- [21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L)]

DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis. The laboratory results consistent with DKA include: Elevated blood glucose level: A blood glucose level of 525 mg/dL (28 mmol/L) is significantly elevated and consistent with DKA. Low arterial blood pH: A decreased arterial blood pH indicates acidosis, which is characteristic of DKA. Normal arterial blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45. Low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level: A low bicarbonate level indicates metabolic acidosis, which is also characteristic of DKA. Normal bicarbonate levels range from 21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L). Among the options provided: A) Arterial blood pH 7.5 and bicarbonate level 32 mEq/L (32 mmol/L): This pH and bicarbonate level are indicative of alkalosis, which is not consistent with DKA. B) Arterial blood pH 7.42 and bicarbonate level 18 mEq/L (18 mmol/L): This pH is within the normal range, and the bicarbonate level is slightly decreased but not indicative of metabolic acidosis consistent with DKA. C) Arterial blood pH 7.25 and bicarbonate level 10 mEq/L (10 mmol/L): Correct. This pH is decreased, indicating acidosis, and the bicarbonate level is significantly below the normal range, consistent with metabolic acidosis characteristic of DKA. D) Arterial blood pH 7.38 and bicarbonate level 29 mEq/L (29 mmol/L): While the pH is within the normal range, the bicarbonate level is elevated, which is not consistent with metabolic acidosis seen in DKA.