HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone Related

Review HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone related questions and content

A client is admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which laboratory result would the nurse expect to find in this client?

  • A. pH level of 7.45
  • B. Serum calcium of 15 mg/dL
  • C. Blood glucose of 450 mg/dL
  • D. Sodium level of 120 mEq/L
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Clients with diabetic ketoacidosis typically present with elevated blood glucose levels, often above 300 mg/dL. This high blood glucose level, along with other symptoms, helps confirm the diagnosis of DKA. A pH level of 7.45 would be indicative of alkalosis, not the acidosis seen in DKA. A serum calcium level of 15 mg/dL is significantly elevated and is not a typical finding in DKA. A sodium level of 120 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which is not a characteristic laboratory finding in DKA.