Diabetes Education Certification Acute Complications Management 3

Question 1

A 17-year-old with new-onset type 1 diabetes presents with Kussmaul breathing, fruity breath odor, and glucose of 480 mg/dL. Which finding best confirms DKA over hyperglycemia alone?

Accepted Answer

Bicarbonate less than 18 mEq/L with ketonemia

Answer

DKA is confirmed by the triad of hyperglycemia, ketonemia/ketonuria, and metabolic acidosis (bicarbonate <18 mEq/L or pH <7.3).

Question 2

A patient with diabetes develops hypoglycemia unawareness. Which statement about this condition is correct?

Accepted Answer

Repeated hypoglycemic episodes blunt epinephrine and glucagon counter-regulatory responses

Answer

Hypoglycemia unawareness results from impaired counter-regulatory hormone responses (epinephrine, glucagon) due to antecedent hypoglycemic episodes, reducing warning symptoms.

Question 3

A nurse administers glucagon to a patient with severe hypoglycemia. After 15 minutes the patient regains consciousness. What should be done next?

Accepted Answer

Provide oral carbohydrates and a protein-containing snack

Answer

After glucagon administration restores consciousness, oral carbohydrates and protein prevent rebound hypoglycemia because glucagon's effect is temporary.

Question 4

Which electrolyte abnormality during DKA treatment requires continuous cardiac monitoring?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Hypokalemia, which can worsen rapidly with insulin therapy, can cause life-threatening arrhythmias requiring continuous cardiac monitoring during DKA treatment.

Question 5

A patient with type 2 diabetes on a sulfonylurea develops hypoglycemia. Why is prolonged monitoring especially important in this case?

Accepted Answer

Sulfonylureas have long half-lives and can cause recurrent hypoglycemia for 24–72 hours

Answer

Sulfonylureas stimulate insulin secretion for extended periods; hypoglycemia can recur many hours after initial treatment due to their long duration of action.

Diabetes Practice Test

Diabetes Practice Test

Diabetes Education Certification Acute Complications Management 3