EMT Practice Test

Category - EMT-Basic

While reviewing a call sheet you notice that the EMT-I used the abbreviation DKA for a patient that was suffering from a blood glucose level of 420mg/dL and rapid respirations that were accompanied by a fruity odor, from your training you realize that DKA stands for what?
  1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis
  2. Diabetic Ketoanaphylaxis
  3. Diabetic Ketoanorexia
  4. Diabetic Ketoanomaly
Explanation
Answer: A - Diabetic Ketoacidosis is the result of cells using inefficient energy such as fats, which produce ketones as a by-product. If too many of ketones are produced the body goes into metabolic acidosis, which can lead to coma and possibly death. When ketones are expelled by the respiratory system, the patient will have a fruity smell to their breath.
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