A patient has a 10-year history of diabetes mellitus. The patient is admitted to the critical care unit with complaints of increased lethargy. Serum laboratory values validate the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis
Which of the following statements best describes the rationale for administrating potassium supplements with the patient's insulin therapy? a. Potassium replaces losses incurred with diuresis.
b. The patient has been in a long-term malnourished state.
c. IV potassium renders the infused solution isotonic.
d. Insulin drives the potassium back into the cells.
D
Low serum potassium (hypokalemia) occurs as insulin promotes the return of potassium into the cell and metabolic acidosis is reversed. Replacement of potassium by administration of potassium chloride (KCl) begins as soon as the serum potassium falls below normal. Frequent verification of the serum potassium concentration is required for patients with DKA who are receiving fluid resuscitation and insulin therapy.
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