CAT Exam Practice Related

Review CAT Exam Practice related questions and content

A 13-year-old girl, diagnosed with diabetes mellitus Type 1 at the age of 9, is admitted to the hospital in diabetic ketoacidosis. Which occurrence is the most likely cause of the ketoacidosis?

  • A. Ate an extra peanut butter sandwich before gym class
  • B. Incorrectly drew up and administered too much insulin
  • C. Was not hungry, so she skipped eating lunch
  • D. Has had a cold and ear infection for the past two days
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Incorrect insulin administration is a common cause of diabetic ketoacidosis. Administering too much insulin can lead to uncontrolled hyperglycemia, where the body starts breaking down fat for energy, resulting in the production of ketones. Choices A, C, and D are less likely to directly cause diabetic ketoacidosis. Eating an extra peanut butter sandwich, skipping lunch, or having a cold and ear infection would not directly lead to the metabolic derangements seen in diabetic ketoacidosis.