The nurse observes fruity breath in an individual with diabetic ketoacidosis. Which of the following may also be observed?

a. Pallor.
b. Kussmaul's breathing.
c. Bradycardia.
d. Clammy skin.


b
If hyperglycaemia is not corrected, metabolic acidosis occurs, producing vasodilatation and hypotension. Early
manifestations are thirst, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, polyuria and drowsiness. Deep rapid
respirations (Kussmaul's breathing) develop in an attempt
to control acidosis. Ketones, produced by the liver as fat,
are broken down instead of glucose (diabetic ketoacidosis),
glucose is excreted in the urine and the breath smells of
ketones (sweet fruity odour).

Nursing

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