ESTUDYR
NCLEX-RN Case Study: Diabetic Ketoacidosis
(DKA)
Client Scenario
1400 Emergency Department:
A 19-year-old male with Type 1 Diabetes is brought in by his roommate. The roommate
states the client has been "sick with the flu" for two days and hasn't been taking his insulin
because he "wasn't eating much."
Physical Assessment:
Neuro: Somnolent but easily aroused; reports "feeling very thirsty."
Respiratory: Deep, rapid, labored respirations. Breath has a fruity, sweet odor.
Vital Signs: BP 88/50, HR 124, Temp 100.8°F, RR 32.
Item 1 of 6: Recognizing Cues
Question: Which findings from the assessment are characteristic of DKA? (Select All That
Apply)
1. ✅Kussmaul respirations (Deep, rapid breathing to blow off $CO_2$)
2. ✅Fruity breath odor (Acetone)
3. ✅Polydipsia (Excessive thirst)
4. ✅Bradypnea (Slow breathing)
5. ✅Orthostatic hypotension (Due to osmotic diuresis/dehydration)
Item 2 of 6: Analyzing Labs
NCLEX-RN Case Study: Diabetic Ketoacidosis
(DKA)
Client Scenario
1400 Emergency Department:
A 19-year-old male with Type 1 Diabetes is brought in by his roommate. The roommate
states the client has been "sick with the flu" for two days and hasn't been taking his insulin
because he "wasn't eating much."
Physical Assessment:
Neuro: Somnolent but easily aroused; reports "feeling very thirsty."
Respiratory: Deep, rapid, labored respirations. Breath has a fruity, sweet odor.
Vital Signs: BP 88/50, HR 124, Temp 100.8°F, RR 32.
Item 1 of 6: Recognizing Cues
Question: Which findings from the assessment are characteristic of DKA? (Select All That
Apply)
1. ✅Kussmaul respirations (Deep, rapid breathing to blow off $CO_2$)
2. ✅Fruity breath odor (Acetone)
3. ✅Polydipsia (Excessive thirst)
4. ✅Bradypnea (Slow breathing)
5. ✅Orthostatic hypotension (Due to osmotic diuresis/dehydration)
Item 2 of 6: Analyzing Labs
