The client is admitted with metabolic acidosis secondary to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Understanding metabolic acidosis, the nurse should choose which of the following as the priority nursing diagnosis?
Explanation
Answer - B - DKA is associated with excessive urine output, dehydration, and hypokalemia, placing the client at risk for decreased cardiac output and cardiac dysrhythmias. Choice A is false regarding output and does not address the metabolic pattern. Choices C and D may apply to the client, but are not the priority needs; in addition, Choice C will resolve as the DKA is treated.
